#otherwise i'll deal with it in the morning. i'll try to actually come in at my early normal time.

[gardenhotspot]

its so hot and humid 😭

#garden hotspot #gcwtual #ohhh my god oh my god. ive sweated all the way thru my clothes and feel gross 😭 #i also think i'll have to stay late to at least finish filling the last 2 front tables. #our former store manager is here today to help prepare for corporate coming tmrw. if he has plants put out i'll kill him #man im baking. and its not even peak heat. i just checked its 89° but feels like 95° yuck. #we got in 9 carts of perennials today. ive only cleared one completely but i think i can take out at least 3 more by consolidating. #but again its hot and gross. and idk what to do with the dead roses so i'll probably bother mb if he comes out. #otherwise i'll deal with it in the morning. i'll try to actually come in at my early normal time. #shifts been funny b was funny o was funny. we got food from the restaurant across the street. #idk its been a good day actually. #other than the heat

[thezombieprostitute]

Dandelion

A/N: Part 2 of this Ask; Reader is AFAB, Tall & Plus Size;

Word Count: ~2.7k (holy wah!)

Warnings: Ex-boyfriend angst, Insecure reader, Talk of body image issues. Please let me know if I missed any.

The next day, Hal joins you for lunch. You generally sit at your desk because there's no such thing as a work-free break. He grabs a chair and sits backwards on it, grinning at you as he sets his lunchbox on your desk.

“What are you doing, Hal?”

“What every straight man dreams of,” he says. “I'm having lunch with a pretty lady.”

“Please don't,” you whine. “I told you yesterday, I don't want your pity flirting.”

“And I told you, it ain't pity.”

“Then why are you eating at my desk?”

“Well, as I said, I was treating you differently because I wanted you to know I thought differently about you from all the other pretty faces. But my methods only made you think I wasn't interested. So now I'm doing something different.”

“And what if I don't want the attention?”

“If I'm genuinely making you uncomfortable I'll get up and go. But if you only want me to leave because you still think I'm feeling sorry for you, I'm sticking around and eating my lunch. Hopefully having a conversation with you as well.”

“How would you know the difference?”

His grin widens, “because you're a horrible liar, Dandelion.”

You roll your eyes, “fair. But if someone else shows up you're not interfering with my work.”

“Oh yes, I am,” he retorts. You give him your best glare but he doesn't back down. “You're at lunch. No one gets to ask you to do any work.”

“You do realize I'm not union?”

“We should fix that.”

The rest of your lunch passes with more back and forth. Every time someone starts approaching your desk Hal cheerfully states, “out for lunch! Come back later!” They leave before you can counter what Hal said.

After lunch, the two of you clean up and get back to work. Hal keeps it professional during work hours and you're grateful for that. You don't want to be mad at him, he's just trying to help you feel better. But the fact that he thinks fake flirting is “helpful” hurts you.

The next couple of weeks you find a small gift at your desk every morning. You receive some of your favorite candies, new pens in your favorite style, and even some cutesy post-it notes that you enjoy using. And every day you would thank Hal at lunch for the gift. As you got more comfortable around him he became more of a menace. It had started with him telling people you were at lunch and it escalated to a game of turning your monitor on and off. You wanted it on in case of important emails or notices but Hal insisted on turning it off because you’re supposed to not be working.

“You’re fighting a losing battle here, Dandelion,” he grins. “I have a major advantage in that I have no shame.”

“Yeah, I’ve picked up on that,” you groan. “So how about lunch away from my desk? Would that be okay?”

“You’ve got alerts on your phone, don’t you?”

You sigh, “yeah. But it’ll only chime for notices that are actually marked as ‘important’ okay?”

“Hmm,” he licks his lips. “I suppose that’s enough of a compromise for now. But we’re going outside to eat, okay?”

“Sure,” you nod. “It’s a nice day outside.”

“And I’ll get to take off my shirt!”

“Wait, what?!”

He runs outside, with your lunch in hand, before you can stop him. 

Only a few minutes into the lunch and Hal can tell something’s wrong. You’re actively not looking at him, at least since he took off his shirt. 

“Am I making you uncomfortable,” he asks. “What’s going on with you?”

"Look, Hal, it's not a big deal," you plead. "Can you just let it go?"

"No, I need to know what I'm doing wrong," Hal argues. "Otherwise I'll keep doing it and it'll become a bigger issue."

"You're not doing anything wrong," you assure. "The fault is with me, not you. I'm the one who needs to do the correcting."

"Well maybe I can help. I just need you to tell me what's going on."

You take a deep breath and steady your nerves before confessing, "the reason I look away every time I see you without your shirt on is because it just reminds me of how much I need to work on my own body."

Unable to bring yourself to look at him, knowing there would be hurt in his eyes, you continue "I'm too big and I need to either slim down or 'get toned' or whatever the terms are. But every time I try nothing works. I just end up getting bigger so I give up. And seeing your perfectly toned body just reminds me of my own failures."

Taking a deep breath to try to keep from crying, you try to assuage Hal, "none of this is on you. It's entirely on me. I'm the one who needs to change. You worked hard for that body and you have every right to be proud of it, every right to be comfortable walking around without a shirt. I need to either not be so damn sensitive or to get off my ass and work it off."

“I’m happy to help you with either one,” he promises. “But I’ll only help you with ‘working your ass off’ if it’s something you genuinely want for yourself and not something you feel you have to do for others to acknowledge your prettiness.” You chuckle but it fades quickly when you see the seriousness in his face. “I know it ain’t as easy for others as it is for me. I also know one of the reasons these things fail is because people mix up their goals for what they want with the goals they actually want for themselves. I love your figure as it is, but if you want to work on it for you, I’m happy to help.”

“You’re gonna start taking me to the gym?”

“If that’s what you want, but we’re starting you out small. Another reason these things fail is because people push too hard too fast.”

“I promise I’ll think about it.”

“Just remember, you’re pretty as you are because of who you are.”

“You really need to stop that,” you sigh. “I get that you want to be more than work friends and you’re a good guy, but I still can’t believe you’re actually interested.”

Hal leans back and grins, “I’ll have to up my game, then, Dandelion.”

“I’m not even sure what you could do to convince me, Hal. How are you going to succeed when there’s no known means, methods, or benchmarks?”

“We’ll figure it out together,” he beams. 

“Or you could just give up and admit you’re not interested in me like that.”

“Not gonna happen. I’m no liar, Dandelion.”

You find yourself succumbing to Hal’s charms. You feel comfortable, even safe around him and look forward to your lunches together. You’re able to let some of your guards down and, while you’re not matching his energy, you’re able to return the playfulness he sends your way.

“You need to be careful, Hal,” you laugh during one of your lunches. 

“Why’s that, Dandelion?”

“Because at this rate you’re gonna see me at my…well, ‘Manic Pixie’ isn’t the right term but I hope it conveys what I’m trying to say.”

“Don’t threaten me with a good time! I’d love nothing more than to see you let loose.”

“You say that now,” you shake your head. “It can be a lot for people.”

“People that don’t deserve your attention,” Hal comforts. “So, does this mean you’re ready to let me take you out on a date?”

“You know what, Hal? Yes. I trust you and you’ve been nothing but kind and patient with me this entire time.”

“YES! This Friday, I’ll take you out after work. Sound good?”

“Sounds perfect.”

Hal has been looking forward to a date with you for months now. When he first realized he had feelings for you unlike the other girls he met. And getting to know you even more only fueled his desire. He wants, needs, to make sure that you have a good time. He even breaks out his good button up shirt. He’ll put it on after work so as not to get it covered in sweat. He can’t remember the last time he was so nervous about a date.

When he met you for lunch he was awed by how you had dressed yourself up. A dress that showed off your legs and, given the cardigan you were wearing, showed plenty of cleavage. He asked for a peek but you giggled and told him he had to wait for the actual date to start. The giggly conversation warmed his heart and he wanted, so desperately, to kiss you. But he’d promised himself he’d let you lead on that front. You were the one who was healing and growing so he’d move at your pace.

He actually clocked out a little early because he wanted to clean up in the bathroom before getting you into his truck. It wasn’t anything fancy, but he knew that wouldn’t matter to you. It’s one of the things he really appreciated about you; you didn’t judge others based on looks or money. It’s why he was happy to help you learn to give yourself the same grace. 

You’re shutting down your computer as he walks up to you. You smile at him and, as soon as your computer is quiet, you stand up and unbutton your cardigan. Hal gives you an appreciative whistle as he sees you’re wearing a spaghetti strap, midi length dress that shows more skin than he’s ever seen you show before. You duck your head, feeling the heat on your face, but you’re smiling. You haven’t felt this hopeful about a date in a very long time.

Hal takes you to the local botanical garden. You delight at getting to see the beautiful flowers and trees in the twilight hours, the pink and purple sky enhancing the natural beauty. You’re practically running from garden plot to garden plot and Hal is loving every second of it. You’re not well read on flora but you appreciate their beauty and could spend hours looking at them. 

But the moment Hal’s been waiting for is coming soon. As the sun sets lower, he pulls you close and points to one of the grassy areas. It takes a few seconds but then you see the telltale glow of a firefly. Then another! And another! You’re jumping with joy and giddiness. 

You look at Hal to see if he’s enjoying this too but he’s only looking at you. Feeling a rush of courage, you pull him in for a kiss. He responds exactly how you hoped he would, leaning into it, with an eagerness you delight in. You giggle and it sparks a giggle from him as well. You break the kiss but you keep your face close to his. His steel blue eyes sparkling with happiness. 

The peace of the moment is broken by someone loudly complaining about everything. You freeze as you recognize the voice. Hal gives you a worried look and you whisper, “we need to get out of here. Please.” Not needing an explanation, Hal starts walking you back to his truck.

You hear the loud voice yell out your name, Hal does too. You try to ignore it and keep moving, though you know it won’t do any good. Lloyd is damned persistent and he catches up to you, smiling like he’s genuinely happy to see you. You know better. You’re just an old favorite toy of his. 

“What a pleasant surprise seeing you here, baby,” he grins wickedly. “And here I thought this place had nothing good to look at but, damn. How come you never wore anything like that when we were together?”

“Because every time I tried, you’d point out all of the flaws that those clothes would show off,” you say through gritted teeth. “And you didn’t want me embarrassing you in front of your friends.”

“Well I was definitely young and stupid because, holy hell you look tasty,” he licks his lips and you fight the urge to vomit. “Maybe I just wanted to keep that fat ass all to myself.”

“Lloyd, please leave me alone. We’ve been done for a long time and I have no interest in rekindling whatever the hell it was that we had.” You pull Hal’s hand, silently asking him to go with you and he does so. You’re in charge of the situation and he won’t step in unless he needs to. No matter how much he wants to punch the mustache off that smug asshole. 

“Hey, I’m being damn generous here, baby,” Lloyd yells. “I’m giving you compliments. Hell, I’m giving you my time! No way you’re gonna just walk away from me.” 

The second Lloyd touches your arm you and Hal turn. Hal punches him in the face while you stomp on his toes. Clearly not expecting the double attack Lloyd backs off, shouting obscenities. He looks at the both of you, his nose bloody and his blue eyes storming with rage.

“Fine! Be a bitch like that! We could’ve been something great,” Lloyd shouts before storming off. 

You and Hal turn back and head towards his truck. You’re shaking by the time you sit down, nearly in tears. Hal holds you, asking if there’s anything he can do, anything you need, anywhere you want to go. He’s got you, he’ll take care of you. Whatever you need, he’ll get it for you.

As much as you want to go home and cry, you’re not going to let Lloyd ruin the best date you’ve ever had. You take a few calming breaths and give Hal another kiss, even more intense than the last one. Again, he returns your enthusiasm. You feel his hands roaming and you moan, letting him know you’re enjoying what he’s doing. 

You whine when he breaks the kiss. “I’m not one to take advantage of a lady’s emotional state,” Hal explains. “If you still feel this way after some dinner, I will happily take you wherever and however you want. But I need to make sure you’re okay to do so.” Rubbing your hand against his cheek you whisper your thanks and tell him that dinner sounds like a very good idea.

The dinner is definitely restorative. Nothing fancy, just how you like it. Eating together in the bed of Hal’s truck, looking up at the stars. You feel a peace you’ve never felt before. You snuggle up to Hal and thank him for a wonderful night.

“Though, I do have to ask, why do you call me ‘Dandelion’?”

“Dandelions are some of the most resilient flowers,” he replies. “Everywhere there’s a chance they can grow, they do so. No matter how much people try to get rid of them, calling them weeds, they keep doing their thing. People think little of them but dandelions don’t give a damn what people think. They’re beautiful, strong and have a lot to give if you treat ‘em right.”

“You are too damn sweet, Hal.”

“Only for you.”

“Would you care to make the night last longer,” you ask cautiously.

“What are you thinking, Dandelion?”

“My place. I can make breakfast in the morning. Or afternoon, depending on when we wake up.”

He searches your face for any sign of hesitation or forcing yourself to do this and he finds none. Smiling, he says, “I’ll be the one to cook breakfast. Because by the time I’m done you won’t be able to walk.”

“Challenge accepted, Hal.”

Tagging @alicedopey and @icefrozendeadlyqueen because I promised I would

#hal carter x reader #x tall reader #tall!reader #big & tall reader #hal carter angst #self indulgence time

[sophie-looks-at-stuff]

Some random modern HotD headcanons :)

Hey y’all! So I kept thinking of some funny, and very specific headcanons for the HotD characters, so I decided to just make it a whole post. This will actually be my first “legit” post on here, lol! Anyways, this will include some headcanons about Aemond, Aegon II, Luke, Jace, Daemon, Rhaenyra, Helaena, etc. But hope y’all enjoy lol! :)

Ok, I am convinced that Aemond has a secret stash of tea hidden somewhere. He's even put them all in a very nice ornate, antique box. It's his guilty pleasure. He probably would have some Earl Gray, English Breakfast, maybe even some lavender mint for the evenings. He'd keep it secret because all the teas he's gotten are way too expensive, and special.

Luke is an avid Minecraft gamer. Like he's basically built Dragonstone, and the Red Keep in his server. He'll play sometimes with Jace, or maybe even Aegon. But he doesn't let them into that world. Aegon would probably blow it all up with TnT.

Speaking of gaming, I think some people are on the same page that Aegon would be some kind of gamer. He'd be up to date on all the new systems and gadgets. He'd be one of the firsts to have the PS5 when it came out. He probably plays a lot of Call of Duty. Maybe even some Valorant when he doesn't wanna fire up the PS. He'd definitely be cursing and yelling at the game, to the point where Alicent threatens to take it away.

While Rhaenyra watches her shows, House Wives, Rupaul's Drag Race, etc. Daemon pretends to be not interested, but really he's super invested. He'd be leaning against the couch, or the wall totally sucked in. And when Rhaenyra tells him to just sit down and watch with her, he's all like, "no no I don't even like this show". But then he'd say things like, "Well maybe if her gown was better made she wouldn't have been eliminated last episode".

Aegon gives me frat boy energy. And I know I'm not the first to say that lol. You already know he's planning all the parties, and picking the themes. I like to think he'd be very invested into picking the themes. They would be things like, dragon night, wear your fave dragon scale colors. Or something like, Dragonstone beach night, wear your swim suits and flip flops.

Alicent likes to knit. Or maybe crochet? It's her stress reliever activity after dealing with Aegon, and the rest of the boys. Helaena is always giving her new patterns or designs to try.

I think Alicent also likes to take the occasional Buzzfeed quiz. "If you were a cake flavor, here's what you'd be based on your star sign".

Helaena runs a very successful tik tok account. She'd post her outfits, and maybe some art or cool bugs she's found.

Aegon listens to a lot of Megan Thee Stallion and Kim Petras. He's blasting Kim Petras' Treat me like a Slut at least 5 times a day. He gets ready to it in the morning.

Aemond will get down to some Amy Winehouse.

Jace works at the local animal shelter as his summer job. He only got the job cause Rhaenyra said he needed to get out of the house. Plus Helaena also works there, so she helped him get hired.

Aemond would be a great bartender. Not with like actually interacting with customers, but he can make some great drinks. Like he's over here coming up with all these crazy cocktails. Although, like his tea obsession he keeps this on the low. He doesn't want Aegon asking him to make drinks all the time. Gods forbid he asks Aemond to bartend at one of the frat parties.

Helaena was a Monster High girl growing up.

Aemond has a motorcycle. It was his one rebellious purchase. Alicent hates it.

Luke can kick Aegon's ass in any game, video or otherwise. You name it, Call of Duty, UNO, Valorent, Go fish...

Rhaenyra has a bit of a sweet tooth, but she has to hide her candy stash, cause the boys will steal it in a heartbeat. Who would have thought Daemon would love lemon drops so much.

I really could go on forever, these are just too fun to write. But I'll leave it here for now lol.

#aemond targaryen x reader #daemon targeryan #rhaenyra targaryen #hotd headcanon #hotd fanfic #luke targaryen #jace targaryen #aegon ii fic #aegon ii targaryen #helaena imagine #helaena targaryen #alicent hightower #aemond targaryen #headcanon #modern hotd #aegon x reader #lucerys velaryon #jacerys targaryen #house of the dragon #modern aemond #modern aegon

[beanibon]

My turn now! Gimme a story of Eriks with a reader who works as a baker whose shop Eriks frequents as they slowly fall in love >:)

I'll do you one better Ember 💜

~ Part 1 ~ Part 2 ~

Eriks x Baker!Reader - Prequel

Mondays were your slowest days, not even many regulars came in on that cursed day that signalled another week gone by. At least it offered you time to experiment, trying out new flavours, or just simply seeing what new things you could add to the menu.

You were displaying some pastries when the door swung open, a familiar face entered as you greeted Lina, back turned before you could see the company she had.

Lina was certainly a rowdy customer, but the kid had heart. Normally she came by to buy this week's bread, or to occasionally treat herself to a sweet or two.

"What can I do for you today, Lina? Who's your friend?"

As you turned back towards the young girl, startling at the sight of the tall blonde standing behind her, bent like child trying to hide behind their mother. It was certainly something you weren't expecting, and you didn't have a clue who this man was.

"Apologies {name}, this is Eriks, he's new around here," Lina introduced her new friend, gesturing to the man known as Eriks, who gave you a shy wave. "Granny and I are looking after him, do you think we could pick up some extra bread?"

You quirked a brow up at the man, who despite his hunched over form, still towered of Lina. His gaze drifted between you and the assorted box of donuts that you sold, acting childish as he leant over to whisper something in his companions ear.

"Also throw in a box of donuts, please." Lina grumbled, side eyeing Eriks.

"Of course, just be lucky you pick up on Mondays, otherwise I wouldn't have any extra loafs around this time." You huffed, disappearing into the back as Lina shouted a "thank you!".

Once you started packing Lina's bread order, you overheard Eriks speak, eavesdropping as you selected the extra loafs of bread.

"She seems a little scary."

"Ms {name} is always harsh towards strangers, she much prefers the quiet of her regulars. Don't worry, once you come around more often she'll warm up to you." You didn't appreciated them clearly speaking behind your back, but at least it wasn't anything overly negative. That you could let slide.

"Along with the extra loafs and box of donuts, that brings your total today to $25.95." Placing the box of bread down, you turned to grab a box of your signature donuts before getting stopped.

"If you wouldn't mind, can I get that box actually?" Eriks pointed to another box, shyly laughing as you gave him an unreadable stare before ignoring his question.

"You'll get what you're given."

"So cold." Came the wounded tone of the blonde, who now had tears streaming down his stubble covered face.

"The hell's his problem?" You asked as Lina paid for the items.

"He's weirdly sensitive, would you mind grabbing that other box? I'd rather not deal with his whinging."

You wanted to deny her request, just like you'd done with Eriks, but one look at that pathetic excuse of a man, something had you swapping those boxes. That's when you officially met Eriks, leaning back when this sunshine man beamed a blinding smile your way, thanking you profusely for just simply switching a box of donuts for another.

He was odd, not to mention completely weird. But if Lina trusted him, you suppose you could too.

A couple of weeks passed since meeting Eriks, and he'd now become a frequent regular of yours. He mostly came for the donuts and some calming tea, sitting at a spot you associated as his now. Occasionally his order would change, and Eriks wasn't the type to shy away from trying your experimental pastries. He was always polite, but terrible at lying, so you'd catch on if he liked something or not.

Over all you didn't mind the guy, finding his company enjoyable when he wasn't being a complete moron. Hell, the guy made you laugh a few times.

"Morning {name}! How's everything this fine afternoon?" Eriks greeted excitedly, cheeks flushed when you turned to greet him, pushing a plate his way. "What's this?"

"Creme Broulee donut." Came your simple response, boiling the kettle to make him his tea.

"Oh! Experimenting again, are we?" He quipped, happily taking the delectable pastry, admiring the sugary coating that hardened on top like glass.

"Creme Broulee is my favourite dessert, plus you like donuts, so I thought combining the two would be a good idea." You shrugged like it wasn't a big deal, but the sound of sniffling had you groan.

Eriks was all teary faced, dramatically sobbing as he held the donut. "That's the most sweetest thing someone has ever done for me, you're too kind {name}."

As much as you wanted to deny that it wasn't for him, you simply couldn't. That annoying voice reprimanding you for trying to push Eriks away, when in reality you gained a soft spot for him in that walled up heart.

Eriks excitedly took a bite of your donut, whimpering as more happy tears streamed down his cheeks. Guess that was a yes on that experiment.

"You haven't ascended to heaven yet, moron." You laughed, sliding the tea over to him.

"I feel like I'm in heaven, are you sure I'm not among angels right now?" He sighed contently, taking another bite.

"Positive, they refused the hit I placed on you." Eriks whined, leaning over the counter pouting.

"So mean, what happened to that sweet girl from before? I gotta say I much prefer her, she doesn't bully me." Your eyes rolled at his antics, scoffing in mock offence.

"Just shut up already, I already tolerate you enough with the trouble you get into," Again Eriks whined, making it clear he found this bullying unfair on his part. "But it's not to say I don't enjoy your company."

Eriks gave you a bright smile, this time you could sense the genuineness behind it, unlike his usual polite smiles that held no emotion. It was refreshing to see, and you couldn't help but give one back, cheeks dusted with a light pink.

"You're rather beautiful when you smile."

"Wha- huh!?"

"I said-"

"I heard you the first time, where the hell did that come from?" You spluttered, flustered by the sudden tenderness his voice held.

All Eriks gave was a small chuckle, leaning forward to place a kiss against your forehead. The small action had you red faced, mouth agape in surprise.

At first the blonde thought he'd done something wrong, maybe took it too far, but those thoughts were all swept away the moment you grabbed his shirt, pulling him into a heated kiss.

Both Eriks and you moaned into the kiss, using the counter between you two to balance as the kiss deepened. The moment you pulled away, panting heavily, Eriks was already moving to come around the counter.

"Can I do something? I've wanted to do this for a while now, but I was scared you'd chase me out with a rolling pin." He sheepishly rubbed his neck, staring at you expectedly.

"Depends, might still do."

Another smile full one genuineness, Eriks now lowered onto his knees, hands rubbing the back of your thighs.

"I think you'll like this."

#trigun #trigun stampede #vash the stampede #trigun x reader #vash #vash x reader #vash x you #vash the stampede x reader #98 vash #98 vash x reader #eriks vash x reader #trigun 98 #trigun 1998

[alanaplucked]

Sonata

part three

part four| masterlist

Matty assumed he had been staring at the ceiling for at least an hour. The silence was beginning to irritate him, a vast comparison to the scenery he was used to.

His mind was stuck on a loop, looking in on one specific emotion; one he tried so hard to overlook. To which he could not deal with anymore.

He soon found himself slinging a sweatshirt over himself and padding down the creaky staircase towards the outdoor studio. Unaware of the faint incandescent light radiating from the upper window.

Love found herself cross legged on the floor with an acoustic in grip. Eyes scanning the various books and papers around her, occasionally bending down to scribble something new down.

Her mind worked wonders in the late hours yet nights like these drained her emotionally, despite the great song material she got. Back facing the door as she intently mustered up potential lyrics in her head.

Her fingers tenderly picked the strings as lyrics just above a whisper fell from her mouth. She knew the song being conjured up wouldn't be heard to anybody but her, it was too impassioned. It could only act cathartically.

Yet the frame leaning against the door said otherwise. His stare acted unnoticed. It was pure and he found himself dazed at the young girl.

A sight so raw and unintentional, a sense of intruding struck over him as the room fell silent following the last strum. He knew he wasn't able to leave without her turning and noticing him followed by an awkward next encounter.

"That was so alluring - sorry I didn't know you would be in here I didn't wanna interrupt" He had added on once she spun around. A small sense of shock on her face.

"Oh god no don't be sorry. I'm the one who's not actually meant to be in here" Love’s cheeks had flushed, she wasn't usually nervous but considering Matty had walked in on such a vulnerable moment. "Let me just grab my stuff, I'll be out of your-"

"No no don't, I mean I don't think I would be able to deal with the silence. That's why I came in here" Matty hadn't recalled deciding to be so honest, though it came naturally.

"yeah it can get like that" Love spoke slowly lowering herself back into her original position. A low silence fell between them. A warm glow saturated the room, lamps were littered upon the studio. She found it comforting and supposed her father had too.

"I couldn't imagine living here" His body was now slouched against the leather couch only a couple metres away from herself. Sincerity radiated from him as his head dropped back against the brown leather. "I need the city noise"

"I try not to most of the time; live here that is" It was true though she hated to admit it. Yet she had imagined Matty had noticed she wasn't here the entire two months they had been recording.

"Do you not then feel like you're taking it for granted" Despite the nature of the question it didn't come across rude or prodding. Now meeting her gaze he could tell she was slightly uncomfortable.

Love was slightly confused, this wasn't the Matty Healy she had googled only a couple hours ago. Leaving the studio that morning led her to be curious of the new face. "yes and no. I feel like it's a small dose kind of thing. you can appreciate it only when it's necessary, plus i've spent my whole life here"

An uncomfortable silence was now lingering, well maybe that feeling was one sided because Love was at peace picking the strings of her guitar, despite her feeling his stare follow her every move.

"I listened to your album, you know, it was very impressive. I mean when I was seventeen I was writing about sex and girls with boyfriends" He was the first to break the silence and a small smirk rose upon her face though she was weary of whether he could see it or not.

"Is that surprising that I liked it?" He had noticed.

Straightening her face and turning to face him "at first, but I don't know any musician that is only subject to their own genre"  Her statement was followed by a low hum on his end.

"So what kind of music do you like?" Matty couldn't help but prod.

"Anything really" Love’s fingers were still picking and Matty wondered if it would lull him to sleep.

"Anything?" His voice echoed her own and she had to stop herself from looking up at him. Keeping an overly disinterested act as though she were far too busy for such a conversation.

"Yeah I guess-" It was true. Love’s father had produced a variety of different genres and his record collection was just about diverse as New York City.

"What so like metal to classical" Matty couldn't imagine this girl listening to anything different to her innocent guitar picking. It was silly of him to imagine that the daughter of one of the best producers in the world only listened to the top 40.

Love was confused to say the least but a small smirk picked up her lips and she scribbled down another lyric. surprised she would still be able to work while holding such a conversation. It helped she couldn't look him in the eye though she was starting to realise he's not as intimidating as he seemed hours ago.

"those are very basic genres, the average normy would listen to those without thought. plus, you can't say you like music if you disregard 99.9% of it"

"the average normy?, what are you implying we are?" Love realised she hadn't heard him laugh and she wished nothing more than to play it on repeat. If she could make him laugh like that again she thought she would be content forever.

"well obviously geniuses, or deities at least"

"ok, so let me get this right you listen to everything offered under the sun except my music" He had simply assumed. And by the look on her face as she got up to swap guitars- he was right, she had no clue as to who he was until she was caught in the studio.

"I actually listened to your album-" Love turned herself around to sit back in her spot that was now occupied by Matty, eyes scanning her lyrics.

"I'm sure you did" His head rose with a smirk; that was until her saw her frozen in the middle of the room, eyes burning on his finger trailing the fourth line of her page.

"I'm sorry I shouldn't have-"

"yeah you shouldn't have" Love got herself to finally move and pick her journal up when he cowered back.

He sat back in shock at her current change in demeanour and said something he probably shouldn't have. "how'd you make an album if you can't handle someone reading your lyrics"

She felt the gentle tug at the tears gathering in her eyes as she moved to tidy the chaos she had wrought in the studio.

"that wasn't for an album, it wasn't for you, not for anyone" it came out gentle, Matty hated how beautiful he thought she sounded.

"it should be"

"excuse me?"

"that's better than anything you've got out there, truthfully. Are you making another album?" Frankly Matty had been feigning for more after listening to her album all those months ago. She hadn't gone on a tour, done any shows, press, there were no unreleased leaks, no covers on social media; she hadn't even had an account on anything. The most he had found was an old youtube video her father had posted of her singing 'both sides now' when she was twelve.

"not for a long long time" She had calmed herself. She thought as though Matty would 5150 her after reading what she had wrote.

"like Fiona Apple?" He had lit a cigarette now and reclined into the base of the couch, she had been leaning her hands back into the desk.

"Sure, she's great"

#matty healy fanfiction #matty healy x oc #matty healy x reader #matty healy #matty healy smut

[bomberqueen17]

yeet

the kitchen is empty.

the more i look at it the more it's obvious that the original owners of the house, who bought it as new construction in 1950, remodeled the kitchen sometime in the 1970s, probably around 1974.

anyway the only thing i'm actually sorry to lose is the milk delivery door in the wall. it's been covered over from the outside, and we never used it for anything-- there were random items in there that were still from the original owner of the house-- but it was a funny little "wait what is that" feature in an otherwise extremely uninteresting house. (photo and more wittering behind the cut)

[image description: a panel in a beige wall, like a small cupboard, set into the thickness of the wall, next to a built-in kitchen counter. Inside is unfinished brown wallboard, with a shelf near the top.]

i am getting lake effected on at the moment, which is inconvenient, but our neighborhood is only supposed to get 1-3" this morning and maybe another 1-3" tonight when the band swings back through. RIP to the southtowns, as is right and proper. (Hamburg got 16" yesterday. It's what you get, living in the snow belt. Outsiders don't understand, when everyone says "Buffalo gets a lot of snow" they don't mean the city itself they mean the region just to the south of it. The blizzard last Christmas was so devastating for a number of reasons but a large part of it was that the lake effect band swung north and dumped on all of us soft City-And-North neighborhoods that mostly just sort of gently chuckle at the travails of the Southtowns. We do NOT have the driveways or snowblowers for this. Sure we can drive in it because we have to commute through it half the time but we are not used to this happening to OUR houses. Also the City is run by incompetent grifters so there's a compounding factor.)

Anyway. Everything is out of the kitchen. I'm prepared to hole myself up in the office for the day once I make sure the workmen have what they need. I'm trying to simultaneously be available and also unobtrusive. Unfortunately the things I could work on are mostly in the basement, which I can only enter through the kitchen. But I also think I'm not going to try to do anything useful today. So I'm not really worried about it. I'm going to sit in the office and veg the fuck out most of the day. I have some hand-sewing and maybe will do some writing and maybe I will just fucking. Sit there and listen to the banging noises or whatever. I don't care. i've been go-go-go-go for weeks at this point and I'm just going to stare at a wall. Who cares. The house is a disaster but the kitchen is cleaned out entirely and they can do whatever they want.

I only hope they don't need me to move the cabinet sitting against the exterior kitchen wall, which is full of fragile glassware and has a bunch of fragile shit on top of it. Probably they'll want me to move that or something. I'll worry about it once they say so. They're demo-ing the other exterior kitchen wall but they're not touching that section, which is why I did not attempt to pack up that cabinet yet. But they might want me to. I'll deal with that when they say so. Give me fifteen minutes to clear everything off the top and then I bet we could just gently push the cabinet into the middle of the room and not fret any more. Whatever man.

OK maybe they were coming at 8:30? IDK. IDK.

#personal #about the author #maybe i'll have time to write! #maybe i'm so burned out i'll just stare at a wall #better times are coming #eventually #sure

[kachikirby]

GranEssex Chronicles: Chapter 18 - The Turnabout

The day after the tournament concluded, Meta and Fettuccine were ready to head out on their journey to prove the innocence of the kind doctor Erhard. Currently he was being seen off by Kurabe, who was simultaneously sad and proud about him leaving.

"Meta, not that I don't trust you to, but please be safe on your trip. And please call me twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, ok?"

"Sensei, I'll be fine. Besides Mercury's coming with us, isn't she? You don't need to worry about me."

"I may not need to, but I still will. I worry about everyone under my command."

"I know, but still. I'll be fine."

"You still need to call me regardless. I can't help with the case if you don't keep me updated."

"But Mercury can do that, can't she?"

His mentor gave a huff. "Well, I'm sorry I'm that replaceable to you!"

"Sensei, that's not what I meant." He replied, only to see her laugh.

"I know, I'm just teasing you. I know that you'll never stop caring for me, just as I'll never stop caring for you. Seriously though Meta, there is a reason I want you to be the one to call me."

He tilted his head in questioning. "What is it?"

"Training. You don't have much experience giving progress reports. While admittedly boring, it's still an important thing to be good at."

He let out a groan. "I know, I know. Trust me, Meta, I wouldn't have you bother with it if it wasn't important."

"I understand, sensei."

"Good. I don't need to worry about you, at least in terms of combat. But you will encounter some people who like... to play mind games. I haven't fully prepared you for that, so be careful."

For some reason, that made Meta grow concerned. "What do you mean?"

"The legal division, they tend to talk a lot. They also tend to find weaknesses in a person. They will try to mess with you, get you to say what they want to hear without you even realizing it. My advice, stay close to Fettuccine, let her deal with them. Don't let yourself get in a situation where you are alone."

"But shouldn't I worry about her as well?"

"No, she's prepared to deal with those people. It's practically apart of her job."

"Ok..." Meta slightly frowned. Hearing that gave him a feeling of helplessness and he disliked that.

"But. Don't think you'll be useless. I know you, Meta, you're very sharp, good at reading people. Besides, there's some situations that need a bit of...muscle to solve."

"Like what? Won't this just be speaking? You know I'm not good with speaking!" By his tone, his mentor could tell he was upset by this.

"Meta, some people refuse to talk and when that happens." The air around suddenly became cold and her eyes hardened. "You need to make them feel fear, then they will talk."

"But I'm not good as you with that!"

"Oh, my sweet Meta, you don't give yourself enough credit. And don't compare yourself to me, that's really not fair to you. You have the talent, or are you forgetting the time you made someone faint from fear just by glaring at them?"

"...did that happen? Or was that because you were with me?"

"Stop that, you're doubting yourself again. And no, I wasn't with you when that happened. I walked in after you caused him to faint. That was all you."

"Could you blame me after I was told I would be mostly useless?"

"Meta, when did I say you would be useless? Like did I actually say that or are you just giving up before you even get started?"

"You didn't say it, but you implied it!"

"No, I implied that it would be difficult on you, but not impossible. I have faith in you, don't think for a second that I don't." She then flicked him on the forehead. "I even specifically said that you wouldn't be useless. If a fight arises, you will be the only one who can protect Fettuccine. You have decent detective skills. And most importantly, you are a pillar."

"...A what?"

"A pillar. Meta, Fettuccine needs you. She'll need your support, otherwise she'll crack under the pressure. Unfortunately, maybe even shatter if it gets that's stressful for her. She has complete trust in you, so it's up to you to keep her calm. You're the only one who can."

Meta was silent as if he was skeptical.

"Why are you so skeptical? You have arguably the most important job because of that."

"But what about Mercury?"

"Fettuccine doesn't know Mercury. Her trust for her is only that of associates, nothing more. You, however, are close friends. She trusts you enough to tell you about her goal, something very few people knew about. Hell, all the progress she's made recently is because of your assistance. Your presence. Not Mercury, not me, but you." Kurabe gave another sigh. "I hope that you understand how important your role is on this mission now."

"...So even if I'm not as smart as her, I'm still just as useful to her regardless? Is that what you mean?"

"Of course. Again, your job is protecting her and giving her support!"

Meta nodded, feeling more confident, but also scared. Not for himself, however... "...Will she really shatter without my encouragement?" He then paused before continuing. "...as in her core?"

Kurabe gave him a sad look. "Yes. It's rare and unlikely to happen, but a Limet's core can shatter from stress. That's why you are so important. You need to protect her, both in mind and in body."

"...I can imagine this would be a situation where that could happen..."

"Exactly. That's why you have arguably the most important job. You are a guardian and I know you can keep her safe. I have complete faith in you. She has complete faith in you."

"...thank you, sensei."

"No need to thank me, Meta. Just do your best, that's all I ask of you."

He nodded in understanding.

"Do you have any more questions?"

"No, I think I'll be fine now, sensei."

Kurabe gave a smile. "Good." She then gently patted his back. "Now you better get going."

"Ok!" He nodded happily. "I'll make you proud, sensei."

"You always do."

The youth only smiled at those words.

"Now go, Meta, be the guardian I know you are."

"I will, sensei!"

Kurabe smiled. "Now, go!"

Meta nodded and ran off.

"...He's growing up at an impressive rate, isn't he Mercury?" She asked, seeing the silvery woman step out from behind a corner.

"Yeah, he is. I assume that's why you didn't hug him?"

"Somewhat. Besides, I'll just hug him when he gets back. I have a feeling he will want one."

"And what makes you think that?"

"All the political bull crap. I'd be surprised if he didn't have a splitting migraine by the end of it."

"Yeah, good point. He already hates that stuff, so it'll probably get even worse..."

"Exactly. So, I'm sure by then he'll need a hug."

Mercury chuckled. "Yeah. Besides, I'm sure Fettuccine will make up for whatever hugs he'll be missing before then."

"Right. I sincerely doubt the two will get into much trouble, but keep a good eye on them, sis."

"Oh, Meta's completely oblivious to that stuff, so it won't be a problem. But I will anyway." The silver woman replied with a smile.

"Oh, he's not... yeah, he is that oblivious, isn't he."

"Yes."

Kurabe chuckled at the blunt response. "Regardless, keep an eye on them. Not for anything dirty, but just in case they, or rather, Meta needs your support."

"I will. You can count on me."

"I know. Now you better get moving as well. Don't want to keep them waiting."

Mercury gave a nod and walked off with her baggage in hand.

---------

Meanwhile, Fettuccine was waiting at the star jet they would be taking, her baggage already on board.

"Hiya, Metty! You ready to get going?" She exclaimed as she saw him approaching her.

"As ready as I can be, Fetty."

"You got any luggage?"

"Yeah." He said, pulling a suitcase from out of his cape.

"Alright, let's add that in."

Meta nodded and walked past her, stopping in his tracks right before he fully went in. "I'll protect you."

Fettuccine blinked for a moment, but then began to blush. "I... thank you, Metty..."

"You're welcome." He replied, not knowing why she was blushing.

Seeing this, Fettuccine quickly tried to go back to normal. "S-so, anyway... where's Mercury?"

Meta silently pointed behind her, seeing said woman smirking at them.

"Ah, let me take your luggage!" Fettuccine quickly said as she grabbed Mercury's bag and put it in the ship, quickly entering it.

"Meta, what did you say that made her so flustered?"

"I don't know. All did that said I would protect her."

Mercury laughed. "Young people are so entertaining sometimes."

"...I don't get it."

"Well to put it this way. You know how people can be embarrassed by things they like sometimes?"

"Um... yeah?" He tilted his head.

"She loved that you said you will protect her, but how you said it caught her off guard. Just like how Kurabe praises you and you act embarrassed about it because you weren't expecting it."

"So, it's because of how nice I said it?"

"Yeah, pretty much."

He only scratched his head, somewhat confused by that. "But I wasn't trying to be nice. I was trying to be serious."

"And you were being seriously nice. Don't you think telling someone you will protect them is a nice gesture?" Her face then became serious for a moment. "Trust me, Meta, your words got through to her. She knows how serious you are about promises."

"Ok."

"Good. Now let's get inside. We have a long trip ahead of us."

The puff nodded as he walked inside the ship.

"Alright everyone, let's go over our plan again. First, we go to the legal division to get the case open again. That's honestly going to be the hardest part." Fettuccine said.

"So, what are we doing?" Meta asked.

"Heading to the main base of the legal division to open up the case."

"Let's focus on doing that first."

The puff nodded, understanding that if they didn't get the case opened up, then that would basically be game over. "Well, let's get going to their base then."

Without another word, Mercury took the controls and blasted off.

---------

In about an hour, they arrived at the planet where the legal division was stationed. Meta was about to step out, but then he saw Fettuccine with the most nervous expression he'd ever seen come from her.

"...I'd ask what's wrong, but I think I already know." He said, taking her hand.

"...Yeah. It's funny, I was so confident before, but now that I'm actually here, I can't help but think about what will happen if I fail."

"I'm nervous, too, but I think everything will be fine. You and Mercury are with me, after all." She smiled and clenched his hand. "Would you mind holding my hand until we get inside?"

"Of course. It makes you feel better, doesn't it?"

"Thank you."

"Well, let's get going, shall we?"

"Let's." She replied with a nod.

The two walked off the ship and caught up with Mercury. "You two good to go now?"

"Yeah, now let's go do this!"

"Good to see your confidence back." Mercury commented with a smile.

"Yeah, thankfully." Fettucine smiled back.

"Sensei was right. I'm the only one who can support her. Don't worry Fetty, I'll keep you from shattering, no matter what." Meta thought to himself. He noticed the woman looking at him, and she squeezed his hand harder upon seeing the determination in his eyes, as if it encouraged her.

"Well, moment of truth. Are you ready, Fetty?"

His friend gave him a smile in reply. "Yeah, I'm ready because you're with me."

Meta nodded and the group entered the building.

---------

The inside was fairly plain, set up like a typical law office. Honestly Meta was surprised by how normal it all seemed.

"...I honestly thought it would be a bit more decorative..." he thought.

"For the sticks in the mud that run this place, this is decorative." Mercury said.

"I assume you've met them before, Mercury?"

"Yeah, with Reedy. They're technically under the Intelligence division's jurisdiction, actually."

"Really? Then why not have Reedy command them to open the case?"

"While I wish it was that easy, that would be an abuse of authority. And you know how much Reedy values following the rules."

"Not even if his younger sister asks him?"

"Again, abuse of authority. If I could easily get Reedy to do it, I would. However, if Reedy did abuse his authority, there's a chance he could get demoted. I'm not going to risk ruining my brother's career. So, we have just had to do this the legal way."

Meta only sighed.

"I prefer it this way, actually." Fettuccine said.

"Why's that?" The youth tilted his head in questioning.

"That's simple, really. I want to make a real difference; I want to expose how corrupt and unfair certain aspects of the legal division are. I can't exactly achieve that if I just have Reedy do it for me."

Meta nodded in understanding. "I see. That makes sense."

"And even if it's harder that way, it will be worth it once Erhard is finally set free."

"Yeah. I agree." The youth smiled. "So, is there anything I can do at the moment, Fetty?"

"Just stay by my side."

The soldier nodded, understanding just how important he really was right now.

"I'll be waiting outside, just to make sure no one bothers you two while you get to work." Mercury said as she walked out.

The two nodded and walked up to the desk of the division's leader, Wolfreid.

"Fettuccine, what business do you have here?" He asked in deep yet polite voice.

The woman briefly gazed at Meta before answering. "I'm here to ask for you to reopen the Erhard case."

"What for?"

"Because I have some information pertaining to the case that proves that there's still mysteries needing to be solved."

He seemed to stare for a moment. "I see. And what is that information?"

Meta noticed Fettuccine was starting to shake and silently grabbed her hand. "Relax, Fetty, you can do this."

She breathed out deeply to clear her thoughts. "To begin with, there are a few individuals connected to the incident that have gone unaccounted for. Not dead, not in lockdown. Just gone. These individuals were also directly connected to Erhard."

"And do you have the names of these individuals and their relation to Mr. Quinter?"

"Wade and Rebecca Forde, the children of Dr. Dru Forde. The doctor Erhard worked for."

"I see. And do you have any other evidence that they might somehow be connected?"

"Yes. Erhard begun to regain a few memories about them. How one of them always argued with the doctor. Then there's one other important detail. Veno, the one in charge of the case as I'm sure you're aware of, is the Stepbrother of Dru. And don't you find it strange that he was quick to blame Erhard despite there being no incriminating evidence against him outside of him being there?"

"I can see why that was unusual. That is why Veno submitted a report about his findings."

"I believe I can uncover the truth. Please, just give me a chance. You can even put me on a strict time limit if needed."

The man stared for a moment. "...very well. I've heard about you from the intelligence division head and I'm interested to see your abilities. I'll give you... say... 5 days."

Meta looked shocked and quickly looked at Fettuccine, who was sweating. "Fetty...I believe you can do it."

However, she still seemed frozen.

"Fetty, calm down. You have what it takes. You are the only one who can save Erhard."

"That will be fine." She managed to say, making Wolfreid raise an eyebrow.

"Are you sure?"

The woman breathed deeply before replying with her answer. "Yes, it will."

"Very well then. The case will now be officially open once again. Good luck to you, Fettuccine and you... what is your name?" He asked Meta.

"My name is Meta."

The man gave a chuckle. "I see, the unkillable's student. I assume you are assisting Fettuccine?"

"Yes, I am."

"Relax. A good assistant needs to be less stiff. Take it from me. Now you two, good luck with your investigation."

"Thank you very much, sir." Fettuccine said. "Let's go Meta."

The youth nodded and followed after his friend.

"He was a lot more reasonable than I expected." Meta commented, seeing Fettuccine visibly relax. She only silently nodded in response. "...are you ok?"

"Metty, do you really think we can solve a case like this in five days?"

"If we work together, I think so. Everyone talks about how smart you are, Fetty."

"Yeah, but-"

"No "buts" about it. You are going to do it and that's final."

She smiled quietly. "...thank you, Metty."

"You're welcome. Now let's get back to Mercury so we can tell her the good news."

"Ok." She nodded as they began to head back to the ship.

"You'll also need to call Kurabe, Meta, let her know she can legally read Erhard's mind now."

"I will when I get back to the ship."

"I know that, silly." She giggled, which Meta was glad to hear.

"She seems to be better already." He thought as he smiled, and they continued their return to the starship.

---------

Once more, Meta spoke up on their trip back. "So, where do we even begin searching? The school it happened at?"

"That would probably be the best location to start with." The woman replied, with her friend nodding and then gaining a quizzical expression.

"Fetty, do you know who owns the school?"

"I believe it's the king of Brightfall. While he doesn't rule Currumpaw, he donated a lot to help build and fund the school..."

Meta blinked for a moment as if that sounded familiar. "...Wait, Brightfall. That sounds familiar. Oh, the loud penguin!"

"Oh, you've met King Bebebe before?" She asked.

"You could say that. He was a guest at that party. He was incredibly cooperative, if a bit noisy."

"Yeah, that does sound like him. I guess it also makes sense that you'd know about him since he's one of Kurabe's closest friends."

"Yeah, if anything this is a lucky coincidence. He should be willing to help us."

"Especially if I'm with you, probably."

"Right. How far away is Brightfall anyway?"

"About an hour from here."

Meta nodded as waved at Mercury who was waiting for them.

"Hey, you two, good news I hope?"

"Yeah, he's reopening it and we've gotta solve it in 5 days."

"Well, the reopening part is good at least."

"Yup. Now we've gotta head to Brightfall to talk to the owner of the university where the incident occurred."

"And you need to call Kurabe, Metty."

"I know, I know..." He grumbled as he walked onto the starship.

"It's important to the mission. We need her to read his mind ASAP."

"I know..." Meta dialed Kurabe's number on his phone and waited.

Almost immediately, she picked up. "Hello?"

"Hello, sensei. We got the case open, so you can dive into Erhard's head now."

"I see. That's good. How are you holding up?"

"I'm doing fine. And... you were right. I am important to this mission."

His mentor giggled. "See? You were all worried for nothing."

"I suppose I was."

She continued to giggle, which made Meta feel even more embarrassed.

"Anyway, we're going to Brightfall next. I'll update you about how that goes later."

"I look forward to hearing about it. Good luck, my little knight."

"Thank you, sensei." Meta said as he hung up. "...That wasn't nearly as embarrassing as I'd thought it be."

"Despite what you may think, Kurabe's good at knowing when is and isn't a good time for jokes."

"Yeah, I suppose you're right Mercury."

"I'm always right!" She said with fake pride.

"Really? Then why do you almost always lose bets to sensei?" He said with a knowing smirk.

"That's a different matter altogether!"

"Of course. So, Mercury, are you friends with Bebebe like sensei is?"

"I'm friends with him, but not to the level of him and Kurabe."

"I see. Well, he at least trusts you right? That should make talking to him easy. Well, easier. He seems fairly approachable to begin with."

"Yeah, he is. If a bit loud..."

"I'd rather deal with a loud noble over a despicable one." Meta commented.

"Yeah, Bebebe's probably the friendliest nobleman you'll ever meet. Unlike most royals, he doesn't have a greedy heart."

"Well, he's sensei's friend. I trust him to be like that..."

"Yeah, we're lucky it's him we're meeting. He might not be the smartest, but he makes it up by being so cooperative."

The youth nodded in agreement.

"I've never communicated with him directly." Fettuccine admitted. "But I've been in the same room with him before while watching him talk to Reedy. So, I know this part of the job will be simple."

"Well, let's head off to Brightfall then."

---------

About an hour later, the group landed on the Planet Brightfall in the Crescent Kingdom. The kingdom itself seemed to be very peaceful. It also seemed to be an interesting mix of summer and winter, with a hot sun and cool snow somehow coexisting.

"...This is an interesting planet." Meta commented.

"I know, right? It makes me want to study it..." Mercury uttered.

"As tempting as that sounds, we have a job to do. Mercury, could you lead the way? I assume you've been to the castle before." Fettuccine asked.

"Of course, I've been here with Kurabe multiple times. Follow me." She waved them on as they headed to the front door of the castle.

"I'm surprised the guards are just letting us move by without any fuss. I guess they really trust us Organization soldiers." Meta commented.

"Of course. Bebebe is an avid supporter of ours."

"I know that. Guess I'm just not used to such a... friendly army."

"I can see why you're so confused."

"Yeah, yeah. Oh look, I think that's the captain of the army approaching us."

Ahead was a small creature wielding a spear. This was Izumi Dee, a Waddle Dee. "Hello visitors. What business do you have here?"

"We're here to visit King Bebebe." Mercury replied.

"Again, what business? I need an actual reason."

"We're here to speak with him about a school he owns. It's important for an investigation we're holding." Fettuccine responded.

"...oh. About that school again. Yeah, let's get this over with, I guess..." He sighed as he began to lead them.

"Why are you complaining, Izumi? It's not like you have literally anything to do with this." Mercury asked.

"We've gotten hounded by people about it a lot. It's why I drink."

"That implies you're over a hundred years old." She deadpanned.

"Who knows? Maybe I am!"

"Darling, quit making up excuses as to why you drink. It's unbecoming of a captain." A secretary Waddle Dee that was approaching them said.

"So, you just saying I can just drink whenever I feel like it?"

"No, I'm telling you that your behavior is unbecoming. That includes the drinking while on duty."

"Look, can you two talk about that later? We'd like to talk to the king." Mercury quickly said.

"Right of course, just walk through this door."

"Thank you." She said before nodding to her allies and stepping into the throne room.

Sitting in the middle of the room was King Bebebe, diligently signing some paperwork.

"Huh? Who is it?" He asked as he looked, eyes widening when he saw who it was. "Ah, Mercury and Kurabe's kid, it's good to see two in good health."

Meta only looked at him in confusion, causing Mercury to giggle. "Good to see you too, Bebebe."

"How's Kura-chi doin'?"

"She's doing fine, but that's not what we're here for." She looked towards Fettuccine, who stepped forward.

Bebebe stared at her for a moment before speaking once more. "You... you're an intelligence member, right? Guess this is for something important."

"Yes, my name is Fettuccine. I'm a member of the intelligence division and I'm here to ask you about the incident at Seton University."

"Oh! I guess that case finally got opened back up. Alright, what do you need?"

She took a quick look at Meta before looking back at the king. "Simply put, would it be possible to get access to records and video footage from that point in time?"

"Sure. I assume Kura-chi's helping ya?"

"Uh... yes she is." She replied, surprised by how cooperative he actually was. "Well, seeing is believing, I guess..."

The king then laughed. "Oh, don't be too surprised. You're the girlfriend of Kura-chi's kid, ain't ya?"

Fettuccine reacted as one would expect and turned pink. "N-no. We're just good friends."

Meta only tilted his head in confusion. "...of course you're a friend of mine, Fetty."

The king just laughed. "Alright, that's enough fun for now I suppose. Morimura! Bring her what she wants!"

The Waddle Dee entered the room as she pushed up her glasses. "Yes, your highness."

"Now while I don't mind assisting ya, would you care to explain why you reopened the case?"

"Because it's unfair to punish a man like Erhard for a crime he probably didn't even commit."

The king hummed. "Yup. Ya gots a point there. I myself thought it was a bit weird."

"Yeah. Wait that was a long time ago, how old are-"

Before she could ask that, Morimura came back in with the requested documents.

"These were the documents you requested, correct? Take your time to look them over." She said while handing the thick folder to them.

"You have a library we can sit in?"

"Yes, allow me to take you there."

"Thank you, Mrs. Morimura."

"You're welcome." She said as she began to guide the group to the library.

---------

Once fully settled in, Fettuccine immediately got to work reading over everything. As for Meta, he decided to look around the library with Mercury, believing it would be best to just let Fettuccine concentrate. He started by looking at some of the books that were on display.

"There's a lot of books I've never seen before here."

"Of course. Some are written in the native language of Brightfall and the others are simply rare books you won't find anywhere else. Like this book, Pilgrim's Travel Log!"

"Who is Pilgrim?" Meta asked, causing Mercury to giggle.

"Oh, pilgrim isn't the character's name. It's what the main character is. The protagonist is named Christopher and he's taking a long and difficult journey to a promised land. Even if it's clearly come kind of spiritual allegory, I think it's more interesting to read as an actual story."

"Must be an ancient story based on how it sounds."

"Yup, I think it's actually older than me and Kurabe. If you take a look at one of the copies of the book on the shelf you can tell it's falling apart a bit."

"Shouldn't something like that be in a museum then?"

Mercury shrugged in reply. "Probably have too many copies of it."

"I suppose that makes sense." "Yup. So, you see anything else that sticks out to you?"

"Not really. Mercury, have you been here often? The castle as a whole, not just the library."

"Somewhat. Not as often as Kurabe."

"Why is that? Does sensei just happen to take a lot of jobs from here?"

"Yup. Her and Bebebe are old friends."

"How old exactly?" Meta asked, curious about the past of his mentor.

"Since Bebebe was a prince."

"So, old then. Were they close?"

"Yup! Really close!"

"Could you go into more detail?"

"I would, but Kurabe would probably be very angry if I did." She giggled.

Meta just tilted his in confusion. "Why's that?"

"Let's just say there's one part of it she doesn't like anyone knowing about..."

"Is it bad? But she and him seem to be on good terms."

"It's not bad at all, just something she's embarrassed to talk about."

"Well, then just tell me about the not embarrassing stuff."

"The two of them often worked together on missions that she took on Brightfall, so you can say that they're allies in battle."

"Really? Him? He doesn't look much like a fighter. Not in the physical sense, but mentally. He doesn't give off warrior vibes like the soldiers do."

"Oh, that's because he doesn't fight anymore due to tearing a ligament in his arm and trying to hide it."

"That would explain it then. It looked like one arm was weaker than the other."

"Yup. He's been learning magic to make up for hit from what I've heard."

"Really? How...weird for a noble to actually take action like that."

"Yeah, but Bebebe's different."

"I know and that's why it's weird. But in a good way."

"Yup. I think so, too."

"...Mercury, do you think Erhard is guilty or innocent?"

"Honestly... I'm not sure. But I came along with you to find the answer myself."

"I see. I think he is, but we'll never know if we don't find anything. I wish I could help more with the actual investigation."

"I understand, Meta."

"But I'm sure I'll get my chance to be useful eventually."

"Yes, you will." "...You think I might have to do any fighting during this mission?"

"Yup."

"Why do you think that?"

"...if Erhard is innocent, do you really think that Veno will just sit on the side and wait for Fettuccine to solve the case?"

"You think he might send people after her?"

"If he has something to hide, yep."

"Then in that case, i should get back to Fetty, just in case."

"I'll go with you then."

The youth nodded as his friend followed him.

---------

Meanwhile with Fettuccine, she was getting a headache. Not out of annoyance, but due to the large amount of information she was getting. Rubbing her head, she took a moment to stand up and stretch.

"At least this stuff should help. At least a little."

Her head still throbbed a bit in pain due to all the information that she read through.

"Fetty, are you ok?" She heard someone ask.

"Oh, I'm fine! I'm just a bit tired!"

"You sure? You seem pretty exhausted."

"No, no, I'm fine!"

"...Alright. Did you find anything useful."

"Oh, a lot of things!"

Meta smiled, glad that the time spent here was indeed useful.

"Well, you should probably take a break then." Mercury said.

"I'll take a break when I... need... one." She said, falling asleep near the end.

"Which is right now." The woman sighed.

"Will she be fine?" Meta asked, worried for his friend.

"As long as she rests, yeah." The youth nodded.

"I'll take her back to the ship. Mercury, would you mind thanking the king for us?"

"Of course!"

"Thank you." Meta told her, picking Fettuccine up and walking out.

---------

In a couple of minutes, Meta returned to the ship and laid Fettuccine down in the sleeping quarters. He then walked outside and punch in front of him, causing an invisible figure to grunt in pain.

"Reveal yourself, assassin."

However, he was immediately slashed by the attacker.

"The hard way it is." Meta said calmly, slashing the assassin twenty times in one second.

Almost immediately, the assassin's invisibly cut off and they fainted right in front of the puff.

"Let that be a lesson for you. Don't mess with those under my protection."

Of course, there was no response.

"Well, that confirms Mercury's suspicions I suppose." He commented, dragging the unconscious assailant into the ship, tying him up.

"Guess I'll wait for him to wake up so Fetty can interrogate him when she wakes up." Meta sighed. Depending on how one viewed it, this whole case just became simpler or more complicated. More than likely, though... it had just become more difficult.

"Did I miss something?" Mercury said as she arrived to see the tied-up assailant.

"More or less that you're right about assassins coming for Fettuccine."

"Well, isn't that just wonderful?" She replied sarcastically.

"It seems like I really will be able to help in this case after all..."

"Duh. Everyone member of a team has a role to play. Even if that role isn't obvious at first."

The youth seemed to blush in embarrassment. "...I've been silly lately, haven't I?"

"Yes, you have been." The woman giggled.

"Well, I just hope she wakes up soon."

"I hope so, too. She needs to tell us all that information she found."

"Right. Let's just hope things don't get too hard for us."

The youth nodded in agreement.

---------

After an hour of waiting, the sleeping beauty finally woke up.

"Hmm...? What happened...?" Fettuccine uttered as she stretched her arms.

"You fried your brain." Mercury bluntly stated.

It was as if everything that happened came back to her, because Fettuccine's entire body turned pink.

"Right, that did happen. Um... anything happen while I was unconscious?"

"We were attacked by an assassin, but I easily took them out and tied them up if you want to interrogate them." Meta explained.

"An assassin!? Great, just what we needed. Bring the punk to me."

The puff nodded and brought the person into the room.

"You ain't getting nothing out of me!" The would-be assassin yelled.

"I assume we just need to leave this to you, Fetty?" The youth asked.

"Yeah, this won't take long at all. Gimme five minutes."

Both Meta and Mercury nodded in response before leaving the room.

"Alright, talk already. Who sent you?"

The assassin was silent.

"You know, I could just have Meta come back in and kill you."

"I am prepared to die for my mission."

"Are you now? What about your wife and daughter?"

"What about them?"

"Well, firstly, thanks for confirming that you have a family." She said with a smirk. "Secondly, do they even know that you're an assassin?"

"I don't know."

"Oh, is that so? So, I could kill you right now and they'd never even know they just lost a husband and father. Wouldn't that be terrible, leaving them behind without any answers?"

The man only remained silent.

"But we can easily avoid that messy nonsense if you just tell me who hired you."

"No one did."

"How old is your daughter? Four? Five?"

"None of your business."

"Oh, I disagree. You were hired to kill me, meaning I am your business. Now just tell me what I want, and your daughter won't have to be without a father."

The assassin seemed to grin before beginning to cough up blood.

"Oh, trying to kill yourself. Sorry, not happening-" Fettuccine started.

"...are you stupid? This is poison!" He then immediately fainted, no longer breathing.

Fettuccine blinked for a moment in shock before letting out a sigh. "Well, so much for that."

Almost immediately, Meta entered. "Fetty, what happened?"

"Moron killed himself."

"Oh..." He then looked at his friend. "Are you ok?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. Check his body, he might have an ID on him."

The youth nodded, slightly surprised by how unshaken his friend was.

"Oh, this isn't the first time this has happened. It's incredibly disturbing don't get me wrong, but you learn to deal with it."

"...I know, but I thought you would be a bit shaken by it..."

"Oh, trust me I am, I'm just good at hiding it. Go ahead and read my emotions, Metty, I don't mind."

The youth nodded and closed his eyes, focusing only on Fettuccine. "...I feel sadness. I guess you are taking it hard."

"I am. I hate death of any kinds besides natural causes. It's just you learn to deal with it until the mission is over. That's when you, or I guess I, can cry."

Meta knew that feeling all too well.

"Besides, now's not the time to let our nerves get the best of us. We have a case to solve!" She said with a smile, but Meta knew it was slightly forced.

He stared for a moment before walking over to Fettuccine and hugging her.

"...Thank you, Metty."

"No problem, Fetty."

"Now, did you find any sort of ID on him?"

"Here." He said, handing her a card.

"Kno Wan. Kno Wan. His name is literally no one. Darn assassins and their annoying aliases."

"So, I guess we don't know who he is then."

"No one knows. Well, whatever, at least we have proof of an assassin trying to kill me. That means someone doesn't want me investigating. Which means we're on the right track."

"So, what planet are we heading to next then?"

"Anywhere that doesn't have anything to do with the case and has a hotel. Less likely to deal with assassins that way."

"Alright, leave it to me." They heard Mercury from the door.

"A hotel, already?"

"Yup. We need a good place to rest and go over the information we got."

"It's that late already?" Meta asked in confusion.

"No, but we know assassins are after us. It would be better to lay low. And if my hunch is correct, they'll be waiting for us in certain locations. Which is why we need to go out of our way."

He nodded in understanding. "Well, I'm sure Mercury will take us to a planet that none of them will expect us to be on."

"Plus, now I'm more confident with our five-day time limit." Fettuccine smirked.

"I'm happy to hear that, Fetty."

"I'll tell you why I am when we get to a hotel room." She said while sitting down.

He nodded in response and sat next to her. "So, what now? Besides going to a hotel, I mean."

"Simple. Knowing your sensei, she should be getting ready to read Erhard's mind. We just have to wait."

---------

True to Fettuccine's predictions, Kurabe was indeed getting ready.

"Alright, Erhard, you might feel a bit of discomfort from this. Are you fine with that?"

"If this is going to help me in the end, I'm ready for it."

Kurabe nodded. "Lay down and close your eyes, clear your mind. Searching for specific memories requires that you don't have many stray thoughts running around."

"That will be easy. I've done that quite a lot in solitary confinement."

"Good. There's nothing more annoying than searching through a storm of incoherence. Now on the count of three I'll enter your mind. You ready?"

The doctor took a deep breath before letting it out and answering. "Ready as I'll ever be."

"Then, three, two, one." Kurabe placed her hand on his head. Next, she knew she was in what appeared to be a doctor's office.

"This must be the form his mind takes. It's well organized at least." She then let out a breath. "Well, time to look around."

Her first thought was to open a file cabinet, but it was locked much to her annoyance.

"I could just force my way in, but that could damage his already fractured memories. I'll just have to find the key for it."

She then began to look through the nearby desk, trying to find anything that looks like a key. That's when she noticed something on nearby desk. A large pile of torn apart paper. Or to be more specific, a torn-up picture.

"Ah, I've dealt with this before. It's like a jigsaw puzzle, just need to put the pieces together and you'll form a picture." She giggled, enjoying jigsaw puzzles, and began to put it back together.

"And done. Oh, it's a family picture, that's him as a kid, those must be his parents." She smiled.

Suddenly a new part of the office that was previously blocked off was now open to her.

"Repair his memories and more memories reveal themselves. Simple enough."

She then moved forward, hoping to find the key soon. She had a feeling the most important memories were locked in that cabinet.

"Well, this will take longer than I thought. But don't worry Erhard, I'll get your memories back. One step at a time."

---------

Back with the investigation trio, they had finally landed on a faraway planet.

"So what planet is this, Mercury?" Meta asked.

"I don't know. I just picked one at random. I think the map said Tabni, or something like that."

Fettuccine shrugged. "As long as it's not connected to the case, it'll work."

"Alright then. So why a hotel? Why not just tell us here in the ship what you found?"

"Safety mostly. You never know, they might have put microphones or something on the ship to spy on us."

"Well, that makes sense. So, what kind of hotel are we staying at then?"

"Whatever this town we landed in has to offer. We don't have the luxury of picking one beforehand." Mercury told him.

"Should be easy. I believe this is a planet known for its nightlife, so there are a lot of hotels here."

"That description fits a lot of planets, Fettuccine. Come on, let's get moving."

"Okaaayy..." She grumbled as she dragged Meta along.

"Why are you grumbling? This is your idea. Besides I'm the one paying for it."

Meta didn't say anything, but he got the feeling that it was because of how dismissive Mercury was of Fettuccine's expression of knowledge.

"Well, whatever, we got better things to worry about." The woman shrugged as she followed them to a hotel.

---------

Once fully settled in a nearby cheap, but well-kept hotel, Fettuccine got ready to explain what she learned. She was then given a plate of food.

"I hope you don't mind, but I ordered room service for dinner for all of us." Mercury said.

"It's fine. I guess I'll explain after I eat."

"Of course. You're hungry, aren't you?"

"Yeah, I guess I am."

"Then enjoy your food!"

"I will. So, who is sleeping where? There's only two beds and one couch."

"I'll sleep on the couch, you two sleep on the beds." Mercury said.

"You sure?"

"Oh yeah! I can sleep just about anywhere!"

"I mean, me and Meta can share one bed and-"

"I'll take the couch."

Fettuccine pouted. "Metty, what do you think?"

"I don't see the big deal. If she wants the couch, she can have it."

She continued to pout.

"What?"

Her pout became bigger.

"Quit pouting and eat, your food is getting cold."

She did so in silence.

---------

After a half hour of eating in silence, now it was time for Fettuccine to reveal what she learned.

"So, what did you learn, Fetty?" Meta asked.

"First. A very interesting fact. Veno was actually a huge donor to the school. Donating large amounts of cash each year, more than enough to sustain it. That until a certain year. 15 years before the incident, his donations became smaller and smaller. Thanks to Bebebe, the school was still able to function, but nowhere near as much as it used to."

"I see. Do you have an idea of why they decreased?"

"Yeah. As you know Veno is the half-brother of the doctor. According to these records, 15 years before the event was when the doctor and his son reportedly started getting into those arguments Erhard remembered. The most likely reason as to why Veno lessened his donations was that he was on his nephew's side and most likely wanted to sabotage his half-brother."

"What were those arguments about?"

"Apparently according to these records, his son wanted them to get into developing weapons. Poison weapons."

"I see."

"Like what happened during the incident." Mercury said.

"Obviously the good doctor was against this and shut down any proposal made about it."

"So, now what? Does that mean the son was the culprit?"

"Not necessarily Metty, but it does make him a suspect."

"What else have you found?"

"Something very interesting from the parking records. You see every visiting vehicle needs to be registered upon entering the school grounds, for secure purposes. One of the registered visiting vehicles on the day of the incident, belonged to Veno."

"So, I assume he's another suspect?" Meta asked.

"He already was, but now he's even more suspicious."

"So arguably he might be the biggest suspect, is that right?"

"Precisely."

"I see..."

"As for anything else. Something very interesting. I found the schedule for all employees. Erhard, was not supposed to be there but was apparently asked to come in by the doctor's son."

"Why?" Meta asked.

Mercury hummed. "Might just be me, but I get the feeling it was to lay the blame for what happened there on him."

"But why him? Sure, he was close to the doctor, but why not frame one of the employees that were already there?"

"It's because Erhard was against his idea for poison weapons."

"So, they wanted to take out two birds with one poisonous stone."

"Exactly." Fettuccine nodded.

"Why not just kill him then instead of leaving him alive? Why set up a scapegoat at all?"

"Hmm... that's a good question..." Mercury uttered.

"Simple. If there was no culprit to be found, the investigation would still be on. With a scapegoat however, the case is closed, and the true culprit gets away with no effort." Fettuccine said.

"I see... that makes sense." Meta nodded.

"Now for the hard part. Finding the good doctor's missing children." Fettuccine said, putting air quotes around missing.

"Do you have an idea where they might be?"

"Nope." She sighed.

"Well, I guess that's what we investigate next." Mercury said.

"But where do we start?" Meta asked.

"...We'll have to wait until we get the info from Kurabe."

"So, I guess we're just hanging out here until then, huh?"

"We don't have much of a choice."

"Well, it'll be a nice breather, won't it?"

"I guess so." Meta then smiled.

"Don't worry, Fetty. I'm sure sensei will get back to us as soon as she finds more information."

"You're right, we still have four days after this one. It won't do any good to stay agitated." Mercury clapped her hands.

"Yup. So, let's take this time to relax a bit until Kurabe calls us."

"I hope it's going well." Meta said.

---------

"...I'm getting so tired of these puzzles." Kurabe groaned.

While she had been having fun with the various jigsaw puzzles, they had quickly begun to all other kinds of puzzles. Logic, cryptic, mechanical, sudoku, mathematical, all of them were present throughout these areas.

"Well, at least I'm getting close, just need to find that key."

She let out a stretch and sighed, being particularly stuck on this logic puzzle for quite a time. It was a seemingly simple puzzle, she just needed to input a password and the puzzle would be finished. Unfortunately, she had no idea what the password was or what it could be.

"Maybe I should look around this room a bit more..." She thought.

"Do you require assistance?" A voice said from behind her. Turning around she saw a little boy that looked a lot like Erhard.

"If you wouldn't mind, I would appreciate it."

"Ok. What's the question?"

"The question is, why did you become a doctor."

The child tilted his head. "Isn't wanting to help people enough of a reason?"

"A one word answer please. The password can only be one word."

"Then "people"?"

Kurabe nodded and wrote in "people".

"Is that it?"

Suddenly a key fell onto Kurabe's head.

"I'll take that as a yes..." she grumbled as she rubbed her head. "Well, thank you..." She started to say, but then noticed that the kid was gone. She then shrugged and then continued through the next door that she had opened with the key.

"Well, time to open up that file cabinet already. About time, speaking of, I wonder how much time has passed in the real world." She then shook her head. "I'll see when I get out. Hopefully not too much time."

She reached the cabinet and inserted the key.

"Alright, moment of truth."

After turning it and jiggling the handle, she began to feel the cabinet open up. Suddenly a flood of memories rushed out of it. Kurabe smiled at this and quickly left Erhard's mind. Back in reality Kurabe looked at Erhard.

"What do you remember?"

"...Everything."

"Would you like to discuss it then?"

"Once my headache passes."

She chuckled. "Very well. I will wait however long I need to."

---------

After thirty minutes of rest, Erhard was ready to speak.

"So, are you ready to talk?" Kurabe asked.

"I am, yes."

"Well let's get this out of the way then. Do you remember who the true culprit is?"

"I... think I have an idea..."

"Who is it then?"

"Veno."

"Of course it's him..." Kurabe sighed heavily.

"He wasn't alone. The doctor's son was his accomplice." Erhard continued, exhibiting an emotion he hadn't had in decades. Anger.

"...I see." The warrior replied with a sympathetic gaze. "Do you have any idea where the son might have gone?"

"An idea yes. In the Merbuda system, the doctor had a vacation home."

"Merbuda, you mean the system with constant active black holes?"

"Yes, that one."

"Why have a vacation home in some place so dangerous?"

"Exactly. You wouldn't think to go there, would you?"

"Of course not. I rather have mine in a more peaceful part of the galaxy."

"Which makes it a perfect place to lay low."

"Indeed. Well, I should probably notify my student about this development."

"Before you do, there's something else you need to know."

"What is it?"

"Veno like you, is psychic. However, while you can read and bring out memories, he manipulates them. That's how I lost mine in the first place. It only works on those with weak wills, which is why he couldn't use it on the doctor or head of the law division."

"A psychic, huh? He'll be a difficult opponent then."

"Yes and no. He can only use his powers by physically touching people. Also, he's not exactly physically strong."

"Oh. Then that will be easy." She chuckled darkly.

"And it only works on those with weak wills. I've only known those kids for a short time, but I'm sure they aren't weak in the slightest."

"Of course not. Meta's my student!" She huffed. "But wait, what about you? You don't seem weak."

Erhard smiled sadly. "Veno did something that weakened my will."

"What's that?"

"He killed the doctor." He said bluntly.

Kurabe blinked in shock. "But... why...?"

"You know the old saying. You're either with me or against me. The good doctor refused to submit to Veno's horrific plans. You can imagine the rest."

"I see... I'm sorry to hear that."

"It's fine. I can grieve after Veno gets caught."

For a moment, Kurabe became silent before she hugged Erhard, who had a surprised expression at the sudden action.

"I understand. But please, just let it all out..."

"Uh... thank you."

Kurabe giggled at the slightly shy reply. "Well now, I better tell them what l learned."

"...can you let me go?" Erhard uttered, now feeling a bit crushed by her.

"Oh, right." She then let go. "I'll come back to you later." She said as she dialed in Meta's number.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Meta. How's your investigation coming along?"

"Fine, but we hit a roadblock. We suspect we need to find the doctors children, but we don't know where to start."

She giggled. "Well, lucky for you, someone happens to have an idea of where they are."

"Really? Did you get his memories back?"

"Yup. We also know who the culprit is now."

"Who is it?"

"Veno, with Dr. Dru's son, Wade, being an accomplice."

"...Of course." Meta gave heavy sigh.

"I think you already know where to find Veno, but for the doctor's son, the doctor has a vacation home in the Merbuda system. Go look there."

"Alright, thank you sensei."

"One more thing to note, Meta. Be careful of Veno. He has the ability to manipulate the memories of the weak minded. So, keep your mind strong."

"Really!?"

"Yes, oh and only through physical contact."

"Is that all you have to tell me?"

"One more thing. Veno killed the doctor."

There was a moment of silence, as if her student was processing that.

"...I see..."

"Yes, now good luck Meta. I'll stay here with Erhard just in case Veno tries something."

"Ok. Thank you, sensei."

"You're welcome, my student." Kurabe said as she hung up. She then turned to Erhard. "Now... where were we...?"

"You were hugging me."

"Oh, that's right!" She exclaimed as she resumed her hugging.

"...So why are you hugging me again?"

"Just let it all out, Erhard..."

"Let what out? Oh, you mean my tears."

"Yes, that's what I mean."

"Oh, that's quite a problem then. I can't physically cry, it was a medical condition I was born with." Despite this though, his voice sounded like he was crying even if he wasn't.

"Perhaps, but you sound like you are."

"I am, aren't I?"

"Yes, you are." After a moment of silence, Kurabe spoke up. "Erhard, I have a proposition."

"...what is it?"

"After you get set free, how would you feel about working for my ship?"

"But why though?"

"You want to keep being a doctor, correct?"

"I would love to."

Kurabe held out her hand. "Then welcomed aboard."

"But... doesn't a battleship as important as yours already have a doctor?"

"The Bukisets, but they aren't dedicated doctors."

"But-"

"But nothing. You can never have enough doctors." She then began to pat his cheek, being too short to pat his head. "Especially since you will be specifically dedicated to being a doctor."

"Well, if you really want me aboard, I don't see a reason to refuse."

"Oh please, I know you would ask anyway." She pouted.

"Why are you pouting?" Erhard asked, not understanding anything about social cues. She then stopped hugging him and reached out her hand.

"Then shake my hand."

"Oh right. Of course." He took her hand and shook it.

---------

"So, what exactly is Merbuda and why do you two look so worried?" Meta asked his compatriots.

Noticeably, both Fettuccine and Mercury were sweating profusely upon hearing that name.

"It's... it's an area that's full of black holes." Mercury uttered.

"...Damn."

"Yeah, it's one of the hardest places to navigate."

"Not to mention a death trap." Mercury added.

"Yes, but that's the most likely place where the doctor's son is."

"Well, we'll just have to be extra careful."

"Leave the piloting to me then." Mercury said.

"Alright. Well Fetty, we're making even more progress."

"Yeah, and I'm glad for that." She smiled.

"Well, we should get going then."

"Hold your horses, Metty. It's late and we need to sleep."

"And I already paid for our room." Mercury added.

"Oh... I guess so. Well, I'm going to head to bed now." He said as he headed to one of the beds.

"You too Fettuccine." Mercury ordered.

"I know, I know."

"Good night you two."

"Good night, Mercury." Meta said with a yawn as he fell asleep.

---------

The next morning, Fettuccine was adamant on getting out of the hotel as fast as possible, only taking time to eat breakfast.

"Fetty, why the rush? Today's only just day two."

"Because the Merbuda system is a long way from here. The sooner we leave, the sooner we get there."

"Ah... I understand." He then tilted his head.

"How long will it take for us to get there?"

"At our top speed, twelve hours. Not to mention dealing with those black holes."

"Oh. So, it'll take all our daylight."

"Yes and no. The Merbuda system is...strange to put it lightly. Combined with the constant black holes, there's at least ten suns there."

"Ten? How is that possible?"

"No one knows. The Merbuda system is incredibly mysterious and incredibly dangerous."

"I see."

"Also, Metty, I have a question."

"What is it?" "What were you eating at two in the morning?"

"Nothing."

"A parfait." Mercury said.

"I assume he does that often, Mercury?"

"Almost every day."

"And he always eats an affogato every day when he wakes up?"

"No, I don't. Now can we get going already?"

"We're already on our way to the ship, Metty."

"...and yes, you do." Mercury uttered.

"No, I don't. Now drop it."

She only giggled, seeing his pouting face. "Fine, fine. I need to focus on driving anyway."

As Mercury turned back to her task at hand, Meta saw Fettuccine looking at him.

"Metty, do you like sweets?"

"Yeah, I do, why?"

She then looked a bit nervous. "When this is all over... would you like to go to one of my favorite ice cream places?"

Meta tilted his head, not sure why she would be nervous about asking that. "Sure."

She let out a relieved sigh. "I'm glad..."

"Well, I'm glad that you're glad then."

She gave a smile towards him.

"Do you still feel nervous about solving this case?" Meta then asked, thinking of a possible reason why she could be acting like this.

"A bit, but I feel better when I remember that you'll be with me all the way..." she uttered shyly.

"Well of course. You sure you're feeling alright? You should probably get back to sleep if you need it."

"Yeah, I'm alright. Don't worry about me, Metty. You being here with me is enough."

"Well, alright then."

"What about you? Are you nervous?"

"Not really. Not about the case anyway." She tilted her head in questioning.

"Then what are you worried about?"

"The black holes. I'm not scared of anything I can cut, but I can't exactly cut a black hole in half... yet."

"Mercury will take care of it. Don't worry."

Meta nodded. "Yeah. Well, I'm going to train."

"Right now?"

"Of course. I have to train whenever I can."

"...do you mind if I come watch you?"

Meta shrugged. "You can do whatever you want. Not sure why you'd want to though, I'm just going to be doing weightlifting."

For some reason unknown to the youth, Fettuccine's entire body turned pink as she looked at the floor upon hearing that. Meta, confusing her reaction as confusion decided to elaborate.

"Well, I can't exactly do my usual training routine without destroying the ship."

She silently nodded. "Can... I help...?"

"With weightlifting? Sure, I guess."

She smiled happily while following him out of the room.

---------

After a few hours, Fettuccine slightly regretted that choice.

"My arms are so soreee."

"You offered to help me, Fetty. You brought it on yourself." Meta replied while drinking an entire bottle of water in one gulp.

"But did they have to be so heavy?"

"Heavy? Those were the lightest I had."

"A hundred tons is not light!" She said, shocked that he considered those weights to be light.

"...you might need to build up a bit of arm muscle, Fetty."

"Limets don't have muscles Metty, we're slime."

"Then couldn't you make yourself have more muscles?"

"What do you think I was doing!? My strength is not the issue, it's that you are way stronger than I am."

"You should get stronger then."

"Nah, I'm good. I'm not a fighter, I don't need to be freakishly strong. That's your job."

"Then why did you ask to help me?"

"To spend time with you, silly." She said with a blush.

"Oh, well thank you then." He replied, clueless as to why she would seem so embarrassed to spend time with a friend. "But next time, I don't mind if you just want to watch me."

The woman nodded in response.

"Alright you two, it's time to get serious. We've made it to the system." Mercury said.

Quickly and curious, Meta looked out the window. To his utter shock, he saw three black holes in the distance.

"How is that possible?"

"Merbuda is a star system that cannot be understood. That's all there is to it." Mercury simply replied.

"I don't think we should stay here for long. Wait, do people even live here?"

"Besides the people we're looking for, probably not."

"Or people who don't want to be found in general." Fettuccine added.

"Why would anyone willingly do that?" Meta asked, not understanding why anyone would live in a death trap.

"Simply because no one would come to a death trap willingly."

"Besides us anyway."

"Yes, but our business here is different."

"We're still willingly coming to a death trap, our reasons don't really matter."

"A deathtrap..." Meta uttered.

"Meta, I know what you're thinking, and I get it, but it's time to be serious. I need both of you to search for anything that could be a vacation home."

The youth stared at her in questioning, wondering why she said that, but then looked out the window.

"What are you so on edge for, Mercury? You're an expert pilot, right?"

"My piloting skills mean nothing if a black hole magically appears in front of us. Neither of us can afford to dwell on thoughts not related to our mission. Now get to looking."

"Ok..."

"Hey Mercury, do asteroids usually have palm trees on them?" Meta asked.

"They shouldn't. Why?"

"Look to your left."

The woman did so. True to Meta's words, there was a large asteroid, almost the size of a small moon, with what looked like palm trees on it.

"Guess that's it."

"Well, only one way to find out for sure." Mercury said as she flew towards it.

---------

In a few minutes, the group landed on the asteroid.

"Well let's get searching you two."

The two nodded and they began to search around. The asteroid, upon further investigation, appeared to be man-made instead of being something natural.

"...this must be it." Mercury said.

"That explains all the random palm trees."

"Yup."

After walking for what felt like an hour, they came across what appeared to be a modest sized house.

"This must be it. I'm surprised it's not better guarded." Meta said.

"Well, it's not like anyone else knows this place even exists."

"Even so, you would think that..."

"No, putting guards here would just alert us. In some cases, having no defense is the best defense."

"What about traps?"

"Realistically there won't be any. They've been hiding out here for centuries. They probably don't see a need for any."

Meta nodded, but kept a hand on his sword just in case.

The group advanced towards the house.

"So, do we just knock on the door?"

"I guess we can try it. Just keep your guard up."

Meta nodded and knocked on the door, ready to attack if needed. Nobody answered. Meta decided to go with plan B. Which was kicking the door down with full force. He instantly did so, causing his two allies to jump a bit.

"It had to be done. HEY! QUIT HIDING AND COME OUT!"

There was no response. However, he could sense that there was definitely someone here.

"I said come out. I can do a whole lot worse than kicking down a door."

Nothing.

"You might have to do worse, Metty." Fettuccine said.

Suddenly, she froze before falling to the floor face first.

"FETTY?!" He then saw a man standing in the hallway. Immediately, Meta cut off the man's arm, causing the man to suddenly regret showing up. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER!?"

"What did you think I do, you brat!?"

"A STRAIGHT ANSWER, UNLESS YOU WANT ME TO CUT OFF YOUR OTHER ARM!"

"I stabbed her damn core, that's what I did!"

"Then I guess you want to die!"

"Metty, that's enough. I'm fine." Fettuccine said as she stood up.

"What the?!"

"Oh please, that wasn't the first time I've been stabbed. That little stab doesn't even make it to the top ten stabbings I've been through."

"...I'll give you a few seconds."

"Yeah, I know I'm poisoned. I'll probably die if I don't get treated soon."

Meta only stared in shock before slashing at the man again.

"Metty, I said stop." Fettuccine said, stopping him from killing their target. "He's Wade Forde, the doctor's son, we need him alive."

The youth glared at her with an emotion she'd never seen before from him: wrath.

"Metty, calm down. If you kill him, then our mission will be a failure, Erhard will stay imprisoned, Veno will walk away Scot-free, and I would have died for nothing. You need to calm down. We have a job to do, an innocent man's life to save. If I die, I want to die successful. Now calm down." She let out a cough.

Meta looked at her, the anger in his eyes disappeared, now replaced with worry. "Alright Fetty."

"Damn Veno... how could he mess up something so simple...?!" Wade uttered.

"You've been a free man while an innocent one was blamed for a mass murder you were a part of. You don't get to complain." Fettuccine spat out, coughing violently.

"I can complain if I want, bitch!" He said, smacking her across the face.

"Do you really want to push your luck when my friend has his sword pointed at your throat?"

Before Wade could respond, Meta stabbed out one of his eyes. "You are at my mercy, scum."

He only continued to grin. "...tell me, do you know what CIP is?"

"Yes, I know what it is, but I don't care. You might not be able to feel pain, but I will make you feel fear!" Meta yelled, making Wade piss himself in fear. "Now tell me where the cure is!"

"There is no cure!"

"Bullshit!"

Before Meta could say anything else, a woman's voice he didn't recognize called out. "Yes, there is, don't listen to my idiot brother."

-

-

-

Continued HERE

#kirby fanfic #granessex chronicles #meta knight #kurabe #fettuccine kirby #mercury kirby #erhard #wolfried #art of rikka #I had to split this into two parts for Tumblr because block limit

[canadiansummer]

KINK/WHUMP/TROPETOBER MASTERLIST 2023

Hey, welcome! Long time, no write. I figured this might be a good chance to come back around to this blog. I have been wanting to try this writing challenge again (considering I failed last year...) and wanted to focus it down into five-day weeks and focus on a single character. I've also mixed a number of themes from a few challenges this month and created a list of both NSFW and SFW prompts. (The 'weeks' may not be done in an actual week, as free time will determine that. Unfortunately.) Thus, here we are with Dmitri. Please be aware that a good majority of these deal with NSFW topics, not just sexual content, and I ask that you be 18+ to engage with these!! Otherwise, if you're interested in being tagged, let me know and I'll be happy to put together a tag list! Prompt/Week list + intentionally vague teasers under the cut.

WEEK ONE

Day 1 - See Yourself -> "Dmitri can be exhaustingly patient sometimes, much to your suffering."

Day 2 - Fever -> "It's difficult for you to let your guard down, even when you can't do anything but."

Day 3 - Matter of Trust -> "You really have no other choice." (Coming Soon)

Day 4 - A Night -> "It was a bad idea, yet you couldn't help yourself." (Coming Soon)

Day 5 - Distance -> "Sometimes, time just isn't enough to heal." (Coming Soon)

WEEK TWO

Day 1 - A Glance -> "You shouldn't be watching." (Coming Soon)

Day 2 - Close Call -> "An interruption turns out to be less discouraging than you'd expect." (Coming Soon)

Day 3 - Hold -> "You had never clung to someone as tightly as you did to him in that moment." (Coming Soon)

Day 4 - Closed Doors -> "A heated moment." (Coming Soon)

Day 5 - Your Legs Just Give -> "And you can't run anymore." (Coming Soon)

WEEK THREE

Day 1 - Reflections -> "You can't help but watch." (Coming Soon)

Day 2 - Sunrise -> "An early morning." (Coming Soon)

Day 3 - Closeness -> "A late night sometimes mean you have to get innovative to get some sleep." (Coming Soon)

Day 4 - Settling -> "You hadn't intended to hide it." (Coming Soon)

Day 5 - Quiet Road -> "What are you smiling about?" (Coming Soon)

WEEK FOUR

Day 1 - Reunions -> "Some things never change." (Coming Soon)

Day 2 - Memory -> "You really didn't want him to see you like this." (Coming Soon)

Day 3 - Come Morning -> "It was hard not to ask." (Coming Soon)

Day 4 - Thrumming -> "If you just waited it out, it would be fine." (Coming Soon)

Day 5 - Haunted -> "Some nights were easier than others." (Coming Soon)

#dmitri antonov x reader #enzo x reader #fandom: stranger things

[unhingedselfships]

7 and 8 for everyone

Can do!

7. Do you ever end up in danger because of them?

Short answer is yes, for assorted reasons.

Longest answer, is several specific scenarios I've come up with, that are entire posts on their own, and will require not-insignificant tagging. I enjoy horror/crime drama and it shows XD

The medium answer, I'll give you now.

Daigo, Chairman, unfortunately it comes with the territory. He does his best to mitigate but you can't really account for everything all the time.

Akiyama having money makes on a target no matter how good of a person they try to be. His attitude doesn't endear him to everyone either. This one is probably the least high level of danger, but it's there.

Majima is. Majima. People are afraid of him, but he also pisses a lot of people off. His position doesn't help.

Kiryu also pisses a lot of people off and manages to get involved in everything. One is bound to get caught in the crossfire at some point.

(the arguably worst thing that happens because of being connected to Kiryu, is straight up his actions and his fault. he didn't intend what happened to happen, but it did, and it takes a long time to forgive or move forward)

8. What does the average day look like for you and your ship?

Trying to stay busy while I languish about the house awaiting my love to return? I kid I kid.

With Daigo it's usually a quiet morning routine, before he vanishes into his office. He might go out, if needed. I take him lunch and then chill with him for the afternoon-evening. Reading, sketching, whatever. I just like being in the same space and he doesn't mind it either. Evenings-nights are usually either winding down and chilling, or handling various social obligations.

Akiyama gets to deal with me and Hana ganging up on him to actually do his job. I don't actually care that much if I'm honest, but it's fun to give him shit. Otherwise I'll lurk around the office, doing my own thing or tidying/helping with the filing etc to lighten Hana's load. Evenings we either curl up together and watch TV or something, or if there was somewhere I really wanted to go eat, then we'll make an evening of it.

Majima is all over the place any given day. The man struggles to be sedentary. We might catch each other in passing in the mornings if we're lucky. I'll ambush him at the office if I haven't been warned off for the day. Nishida does an excellent job of keeping me updated. If he's not doing anything overly dangerous, there's a decent chance Maji will drag me around town with him on whatever hijinks he's getting up to. Evenings tend to be dedicated to any social obligations Maji has to field. Whether I tag along depends entirely on my mood. I can usually coax him home with dinner though. He's a sucker for home cooking.

With Kiryu, most of the day is spent wrangling kids. Luckily the orphanage kids are all great. Mornings are getting lunches together and maybe prep work for dinner if I feel up to it. Getting everyone shuffled off where they need to be. Kir inevitably gets drug off to somewhere for something, and that works because I hate cleaning when there are other people existing. Having everyone out gives me a chance to tackle the house work. If I have the spoons. On especially bad days I make it clear he's staying and helping me, and everyone else can wait. He means well but tends to spread himself to thin. He's gotten pretty good about it though. Evenings are getting everyone settled back in, clean up routines, dinner, etc. Once everyone is settled we try to squeak out a little us time before we crash. It can get chaotic but we make it work.

#ask game answered #kulemiwrites #this was fun thank you

[iwaasfairy]

Heyo Fairy!! I hope your day/night/evening/morning/afternoon is going amazingly, and that you never forget that you are that bitch! (Affectionate, obv) Seriously, I remember when I first started having these "darker" thoughts about characters and I was like 'What the fuck is wrong with me?' and then years later, I find your and Rhi's blog. Y'all let me realize that it's perfectly normal to think these things, even if those who don't, or deny that they do, think otherwise. So, seriously, thank you, y'all mean so, so, SO MUCH to me! Like big sisters that help me see there's nothing wrong with me, even if people I know irl would say "wtf?" 🥹

Ahhh, sorry, that was so fucking sappy! 🫣 I just wanted to ya know that it really does mean a lot to people like me, and your other followers, that y'all are brave enough to post the things you do despite all the little bitches that try and tear y'all down 🥹

... That was sappy again 🤦🏻‍♀️ y'know what, what the fuck ever, I'm just a soft person when it comes to emotions and shit, I'll deal with it 😤

That all being said, I can't belIEVE it took me this long to comment on 2 of Cups! Okay, so, when part 1, and 2, came out, I had no idea who Rin and Sae were. I didn't even know what Blue Lock was, just that it's a manga/anime. I was like oh, okay, cool! I read part one anyway, and was all like "... I gotta watch this. If the anime isn't out yet, I gotta watch it as soon as it DOES come out." (I'm an anime only, because I almost always give characters the exact same voice if I have nothing to go off of 😒 I struggle with it fr fr. anYWAY—) So, I don't... Think? I'd read part 2 yet, tbh I think I completely forgot about it, the memory is NOT good, I'm so sorry! So when the anime DID come out, I wasn't actually aware 😅 until they uploaded episode, like... 10? Or 11? Of the English Dub? AnywAY! THE POINT Is, I started watching because of things I've read, I was TIRED of looking up every single character when I read about them 😭 SO, I watched, got caught up to where it is now, and am waiting for the next episode, and you mention 2 of Cups part 3 is coming out, and I was like "oH SHIT, I REMEMBER READING PART 1!" So, I went back, read parts 1 and 2, absolutely ADORED them, despite the pain 🥹 Like, Rin's pining, but not wanting to do anything because of SAE, that little bitch, that won't admit he's the sAME and keeps being an AsS when Rea-chan and Rin are even remotely affectionate, AaAAAAHHHH! And I was so exCITED for part 3! And then part 3 came out, and... It absolutely bLEW MY IMAGINATION OUT OF THE PARK, LIKE!! !! I dunno, what I was expecting to happen, but I'm so happy it went the way it did! I mean, yeah, sure, it hURT, what with Sae continuing to be an ass, and RIn, poor rIN! Sweet baby, he's so! I can't even begin to espresso how in absolute awe I'm in of this mASTERPIECE! It keeps me up at night, thinking about it, and about what may happen next. Like, did Sae go back to, I think it was... Spain? Did he just go somewhere else for the time being, and he'll be back? Will Rin give in to his fantasies? Will he be soft and gentle if he does? Would he absolutely destroy Rea-chan with his roughness? Would he start off gentle, and then lose it?

So many questions, but I can wait to have them answered; I know you work incredibly hard, and that writing really takes time 🥰 PLUS, we can't have you not sleeping! The Queen of Fairies needs her sleep, she must rest and take care of herself 🥺 Love you much, take care!! 🥰

firST OF ALL,no yOURE THAT BITCH!!!! YOU ARE! YOU ARE! wtfFDSGD thIS IS SO FUCKING SWEET im gonna cry and scREam !!! ♡♡♡ yes iT is totally normal for you to thrive off of taboo, tIS ouR little bug brains,, and alSO IM MASTER OF SAP i doNT MIND YOU BEING SAPPY PLS THIS IS SO SWEEETTTTTT :/ makes me cry. i hope you know i see every like and rb and i get the dumbest fondest grin on my stupid face any time you're in my notifs, or def when you send an ask or a comment or anything i jUST mELT

and stOPPDbhFu MASTERpiECE i??FYFDyd pLS pls pls oml iM SO VERY VERY HAPPY you LIKED thE FIc and iM bery happy i decided to give myself room for a part 4 bc i think iLL need iT im just Too foND of thEm!! and YES oml manY quESTions right??? i! haven't figured them all out yet so i can't exactly tell you everything but i do know that Sae's still in Japan, he's not yet going back to Spain,, i think Sae just can't handle the idea of rea-chan being with Rin and a similar grudge against him,, and :))) heheh for the smut :))) we shall have to wait and see

#i lOVE YOU MOREEEE #pLS I HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND #AND !!! an EVEn BETTER WEEK #mWUAH #honey mail

[takoichigo]

I woke up at 8:30 PM today.

I didn't really sleep last night, caught a couple of hours between like 10 and noon, but I had to get up at noon and gather my laundry because a friend's mom volunteered to do it for me. I haven't really been able to do it myself in about a month.

I took a shower today too. I didn't get one before my appointment Monday because I overslept and I haven't otherwise left the house since last Thursday, which I think was the last time I showered. Don't get it twisted, I sit in the tub multiple times a day to relieve my pain that still isn't under control, but my hair...

...I have been losing it. A lot of it. Not all of it, and it doesn't hurt like I've heard it can with chemo. But colon cancer chemo isn't supposed to make all your hair fall out, it'll just "thin". It was already thin to begin with. I haven't looked in the mirror in a week, I'm kind of afraid I have bald spots. It's also much too long so I always just have it piled in a bun on my head (also to keep it out of the water when I'm in the tub).

I went off topic. Anyway. Showered. My laundry was picked up. Laid down and tried to watch some Red Dwarf. Made it through a couple episodes before I conked out. Slept from about 2:30 to 8:30. Woke up at 4, took my medicine, immediately fell back asleep. My bed has no sheets on it, I had to send the ones that were on it to be washed because my AC went out a few weeks ago and I've just sweated so much into them that they were stiff.

I'm not sure if I just was comfy because I'd showered and felt clean, or that I was not lying on a stiff sheet that smelled like B.O., or that only my daytime meds do enough for the pain that I can actually sleep, but I was out cold.

I guess I'm just nocturnal now. I hate this, I take meds at 11:00 PM to *help me sleep* and they fucking don't do anything in the face of the pain I'm in. I'm in the tub right now because the pain flared up and I couldn't lie there.

But I sent all my sheets and towels to be washed...which means I'm air drying when I get out I guess before I try to go back to bed. With no sheets on it. Not that I'm going to sleep. I'll sleep tomorrow during the day and be woken up by phone calls and texts and shit. Because y'know. Normal people hours. My laundry will be here in a few hours, she said she'd drop it off in the morning for me. I'm hoping I'm not asleep when she comes.

I can't do anything anymore. Especially at night, when the pain is the worst. So being nocturnal does nothing for me. Just being up out of bed is really tiring really fast.

But things are getting better I guess. The tumor has shrunk. The levels of the cancer indicator in my blood have gone way down (though they're still too high for a normal person). Blood count is too low, still, it's worse than it was before but I guess still not bad enough for a transfusion. No wonder I've been nearly passing out when I stand up.

I don't know what normal is anymore. I don't go out and do anything, I just...lie in bed. My car is still broken. I couldn't drive if I wanted to anyway... I'm way too weak and shaky, and sitting is almost always painful. Road bumps are god-awful. I've been playing Stardew Valley again because it feels like I'm accomplishing something. I've hit walls I don't want to deal with in almost every other game I have. Which sucks, but...why do I need to stress myself out over it?

My friends are really busy. I haven't seen much of them lately, and the one just always seems like I'm stressing him out when I do see him. The other one just got a new job and blanks out and freezes when I'm upset around him, which happens pretty often, because it's super easy to upset me. Usually just the pain will do it, but also, everything I'm going through is either terrifying or frustrating. I upset another friend the last time they visited, because they hadn't seen me so weak. Everyone keeps saying they're sorry I'm going through this. I hate hearing it. I don't want my friends to be sad or upset around me. I don't want to cause them to be stressed out. It's already so hard to ask for help as it is.

I don't really know why I'm writing this post. Honestly it just feels like I haven't talked to anyone in so long that's had enough time to listen. And probably no one will see this. Which is kind of okay. I feel like I'm just whining anyway.

[clinicallyinvisible]

No matter what I do, I can't win. My partner goes looking for something to fight with me about. And I know it's just because he's frustrated and angry and doesn't know how else to deal with his feelings so he takes it out on me. He's going to counseling and I've tried to give him solutions to things, but he makes absolutely no effort to work on himself. Instead of listening to me when I say something is wrong or something he did hurt me he plays victim and does the whole "everything I say/do is wrong boo hoo poor me" and I don't engage with that shit anymore.

When covid started and I quit my job I was on EI for a while and then went back to school. Yeah, I slacked on the housework and struggled to get things done. I was depressed. Instead of trying to help me he just shamed me and scolded me and fought with me over it. Now he's been having a depressive period and is doing a lot of sitting around and playing video games and god forbid I try to help him by giving him something to do and getting him off his ass. I asked him to clean with me this morning and he complained the entire time and picked a fight with me. It was such a travesty that I was telling him he wasn't doing enough because there was a time that I was not doing enough and by that logic I should let him do the same thing I did. Difference being that back then and still today I have always done more than him around the house. Always. And I work more than he does now.

Like sure, I get why he's upset, but isn't it hypocritical of him to reverse the roles at this point? Like I got better and am actually doing a damn good job compared to before and instead of seeing that and appreciating that he thinks now it's his turn to do nothing and because he makes more money than me he seems to think that's fair. Like no. If you're gonna be on your ass at home while I'm at work you can pick up some slack at home. I still do most of the cleaning, all the cooking, and am primary caretaker of our 5 pets. But god forbid I ask him to spend just an hour or two cleaning with me on a Saturday morning.

Time and time again he has disregarded boundaries I've set and I've reminded him of the boundary when he crosses it and then he crosses it again and again. I give him so many chances and he constantly disrespects me.

I'm done. I've decided I'm done. I love him deeply and he's my best friend, but I can't be in a relationship with him anymore. I'm going to ask him to move out. Which is only fair because he owns 2 houses, neither of which are the one we live in. We rent this place. He refused to buy us a house, just kept putting tenants into the houses he bought. Which is fine because otherwise I'd have nowhere else to go so it worked out for me. He can kick one of his tenants out and I'll stay here. I'm happy to still be his friend, but I don't want to be his "girlfriend" anymore.

I just need to be alone. I just need to get some space. I feel suffocated at this point. He's so mean to me and yet I think he can tell I'm pulling away because of it so then he gets physically clingy and affectionate, which just doesn't interest me right now.

And I'm sad. I'm sad that we couldn't make it work, but I have tried so hard for 5 years and he has not put nearly as much effort in as I have and he just refuses to give me very much. It feels unfair and I feel alone anyway. Alone, but suffocated. It hurts that he doesn't love me the way I need to be loved and it hurts that I have given so much and gotten so little back. It hurts to not be listened to and to be so disrespected by the one person that is supposed to support and love me.

I am finally in a place in my life where I have a good job and good friends and finally have direction. But instead of coming with me down the path he just clings to my leg and holds me back. He won't grow up and he won't move forward. I have to leave him behind. And it sucks that I have to do that, but it's what will be best for me.

[pofatrgwf]

Chapter 9 - Two Bros Chilling in the Hot Spring, 5 Feet Apart

Sky and Phos were chilling in the hot spring. They didn't sit next to each other, but were still pretty close. All was quiet, until they heard faint whispers…

"yooooo, ♪two bros chillin in the hot tub, five feet apart cause they're not gay!♪"

"What?"

"Why are we whispering?"

Sky looked at the three pokemon who were watching them and whispering. It was an Oshawott, a Snivy, and a Hydreigon.

Sky: "I'll have you know, we're both gay."

Phos: "Not for each other, but still."

Josh turned to Johmathoscalomew, pointing at Sky and Phos

Josh: "hah, clueless"

Johmathoscalomew: "Josh, come with me for a second."

Johmathoscalomew grabbed Josh by his ear and dragged him away. Hydreigon apologized to Sky and Phos and went with the others.

Phos: "What's their deal?"

Sky: "I don't care enough to find out."

And so, the two bros continued to chill in the hot spring, six feet apart this time.

Johmathoscalomew: "This is an intervention. Stop it. No one understands your 'vines' and 'means-'"

Josh: "Memes."

Johmathoscalomew: "Stop. Please."

Hydreigon: "I mean, even if no one understands him, is it so bad for him to have fun?"

Johmathoscalomew: "You don't understand. Every morning, he tells me to 'slay'. Every Wednesday, he says 'Sparkle On!' and then 'Sparkle Off!' the next day. Every time he throws something, he screams 'yeet'. He tells me that he 'misses his wife' even though he never had one?? Help."

…

"Does he know?"

"YOU-"

All of Treasure Town watched as Sierra carried Kilo to the hospital. Everyone started gossiping.

Duskull: "Did Sierra just… carry that dude to the hospital? Didn't think they actually cared about anyone…"

Kangaskhan: "I hope that Toxtricity will be alright…"

Marowak: "Perhaps that powerhouse isn't as heartless as we all thought."

Kecleon 2: "Told 'ya he's alright."

Electivire: "He?"

Kecleon 1: "Yep, Sierra's a he! …Did you not know this?"

Electivire: "No one really talks to him, so we didn't actually know."

Duskull: "With a name like Sierra, you'd assume otherwise, right?"

Kecleon 1: "No? Not really?"

While all of Treasure Town was talking about Sierra, Xatu just finished reading the letter from his brother. He walked into the crowd.

Xatu: "Ahem. I've received a warning from my brother."

Duskull: "Oh, the prophet guy?"

Xatu: "Yes. He-"

Electivire: "What happened?"

Xatu: "I'm g-"

Marowak: "He's getting to that, you numbskull."

Xatu: "H-"

Duskull: "Yeah, don't you know it's rude to interrupt people?"

Xatu: "…"

Everyone was silent, waiting for Xatu to say what it was he wanted to say.

Xatu: "P-"

Duskull: "So, what is it?"

Electivire: "Yeah, don't keep us wai-"

Xatu gave up and straight up left.

Marowak: "…what? Wasn't he gonna… huh?"

Kilo and Sierra left the hospital together, and went into town to look for Uni and Delta. They then saw all of Treasure Town standing around in confusion. Kilo walked up to the crowd (followed by Sierra, since he wants to make sure he doesn't collapse again).

Kilo waved hello. "Hey! What's going on?" Everyone else turned to see Kilo (and Sierra).

Kangaskhan: "Oh! Are you alright? We all saw you pass out."

Kilo: "Everyone? That's embarrassing…"

Electivire: "Sure was! Good thing Sierra took you to the hospital. How kind."

Marowak: "Yeah, that seemed pretty uncharacteristic of you, Sierra…"

Sierra, glaring: "What's that supposed to mean?"

Marowak: "UHHH… uhhh… I'm outta here."

Marowak tried to run away, but Sierra grabbed him by the scruff and lifted him. Marowak started flailing his arms around.

Sierra: "Care to elaborate?"

Marowak: "No! Put me down! Please!!"

Kilo sighed. "ANYWAY. What's everyone's gathered up for here.. for…… wait."

Electivire: "Uh… Wanna try that again?"

Kilo: "What everyone's… what's……"

Electivire: "You need a minute?"

Kilo: "Everyone here. Why."

Duskull: "Xatu got a message from his brother."

Kilo looked confused. "…Okay? What does tha-"

Duskull: "Usually means a world-ending catastrophe is gonna happen."

Kilo: "Oh... Waitwhatdoyoumean'usually'"

Electivire: "Oh, he predicted a meteor being on a collision course to his town, time stopping in various places here, a cult summoning Giratina from the Distortion World, an entire continent being mind-controlled, et cetera, et cetera."

Duskull: "Granted, it was always vague warnings, but he was always right. So whenever Xatu gets a letter from his brother, we just gotta hope it's not here and that someone will deal with it."

Kilo: "…And this is normal?"

Duskull: "Yep!"

Kilo: "Sounds inconvenient."

Electivire: "That's probably the understatement of the year."

Kilo: "Alright then… I… I'm gonna go now… Bye."

Kilo walked away from the crowd to go look for Delta and Uni. Sierra stayed behind and was still holding on to Marowak, who had just accepted his fate and gave up.

Uni and Delta had been sitting on a bench, not doing anything, until Kilo came up to them. Delta told Uni what had happened, so Uni stood up just to step away from Kilo.

Kilo: "Why did you just?"

Uni: "Don't want you to throw up on me. Simple."

Kilo: "Rude."

Kilo picked up Delta and walked back to the crowd. Uni decided to stay put.

Sierra noticed that Kilo's eyes looked very tired.

Sierra: "Hey, Kilo? You look pretty tired, you alright?"

Kilo: "Huh? Yeah, I'm fine. I mean, I was out for a few hours, right?"

Sierra: "Yeah, but you were unconscious, not asleep. Big difference."

Kilo: "Look, I'm fine, okay? No need… to… yaaawwwn worry…"

Kilo was trying his best to stay awake, but was failing. He felt his eyes close, and fell asleep standing up. Sierra put down Marowak, grabbed Delta from Kilo's arms, and woke him up.

Kilo: "zzz… mmm… whuh?"

Sierra: "Go home and sleep. I'll see you there later."

Everyone else raised their eyebrows at the same time at that sentence (🤨). They also started whispering. Kilo basically dragged himself home and immediately went to sleep on the floor.

Duskull: (They're living together?)

Electivire: (They're roommates?)

Marowak: (Do you guys think it's more than just 'roommates'?)

Electivire: (What do you mean "more than just roommates?")

Duskull: (Like… y'know… You know what he means.)

Electivire: (No, I don't.)

Marowak: (They're literally raising a child together. Need I say more?)

Electivire: (Yes?? Please say more?? I don't get it??)

Duskull: "Gay. They're gay. They sleep together and raise a kid together. What else do we have to say."

Sierra: "what-"

Electivire: "Ohhhhh! That makes sense! Yeah they're totally gay then."

Sierra: "???"

Marowak: (QUIET, HE CAN HEAR YOU TWO!)

Sierra: "I'm… gonna go now." And then he did.

Sierra opened the door and saw Kilo asleep on the ground, but the sound of the door opening woke him up. Sierra put Delta down, and went to Kilo's side. Kilo was too tired to move his body, so Sierra just laid down with him. The two snuggled together and Sierra started purring.

"How do you feel?" Sierra asked, still purring.

"...I feel... nice..."

The two wrapped their arms around each other. Delta decided that now would be a good time to bring food to his family so his new dads could have some alone time.

On his way to his family's home, Delta heard someone shouting.

"YOU- AAAAGHH. WHY?"

Delta hid in a nearby bush. He saw a Snivy, an Oshawott, and a Hydreigon talking to each other.

Hydreigon: "Maybe we should calm down…?"

Johmathoscalomew: "TOO LATE."

Josh: "Okay, okay! I'll stop for now. Don't want to make you blow up in anger or something."

Hydreigon: "Maybe you should take a break? The Hot Spring's right here, so…"

Johmathoscalomew: "Good idea…"

Johmathoscalomew and Hydreigon went to the hot spring. Josh followed for a bit before suddenly stopping.

"I know you're there. Come out."

Delta came out of the bush, absolutely surprised.

Delta: "How did you know?"

Josh: "Oh, I didn't. I just say that every time I leave a place just in case."

Delta: "Oh."

Josh: "What were you doing there anyway?"

Delta: "I was just walking by and then I heard shouting, so I hid. Is everything okay?"

Josh: "Oh, yeah, everything's fine, don't worry!"

Delta: "Alright then, I'll just go along then…"

Josh: "Wait."

Josh turned around to look at a tree.

Josh: "You there, the Swampert behind the tree. Come out."

Uni came out from behind the tree, annoyed.

Uni: "I thought you didn't know when people were hiding, how did you even know I was a Swampert?"

Josh: "Oh, I just saw you from the corner of my eye. What are you doing following this little child?"

Uni: "I'm making sure he gets to his destination safely. He's only 3."

Josh turned to Delta. "You know this guy?"

Delta nodded. "Yeah, we're on the same team."

Delta showed Josh his bandana, and then pointed to Uni's matching bandana.

Josh: "I see… Alright then!"

Josh turned around and went to the hot spring with his friends. It was very awkward at the hot spring. Josh tried to ignore the tension by making small talk but nothing worked. Sky and Phos were still there and were getting sick of Josh and his friends, so they got up and went home.

As Sky and Phos went back to Treasure Town, they went from shop to shop, doing their normal business. Eventually, they got to Xatu, who then told them a catastrophe his brother warned about.

Sky: "That's… That's really bad."

Phos: "Are we sure that there actually IS someone dealing with that?"

Xatu: "My brother's never lied, so I would assume so."

Sky: "Yikes… Hope that gets dealt with soon.'

#pofatrgwf #the power of family and this random guy we found #pokemon mystery dungeon #pmd #chapter 9 #long post

[error707-thatdude]

Collision and pancake for all three please!!

I'm pretty sure I've answered both of these for Lena once, but I'll do them again! Sending you spooky Halloween-y vibes addy<33

• Collision: emotion they have trouble dealing with?

Lena= anger! I said this once before but she just has an rbf, most of the time her feelings are kinda muted and dull; it truly surprises her to feel such intense fury at the treatment of the Luminary (a then freshly 16 year old come on). She tends to go kinda berserk with her anger, not fully knowing how to cope when she feels it

Jin= ah yes Jin, otherwise known as savior/martyr complex personified. Fawn is very emotionally intelligent and can easily help others understand and cope but, to her, any negative emotion has to take a back burner. She's has the whole "always happy! Always there for you! :D" persona for so long she doesn't really understand how to navigate the negative ones on herself, specifically sadness, and Jin thinks they're something that'll hold her down, interfere in fawns quest to bring joy so she kinda just- bottles them up, tightly locks them away (either until they burst or she finally passes, whichever comes first)

Cathy= the new oc! Cathy is protective of her brothers, has been since they were tots; worrying over anything from Donnie's soft shell, Raph taking on too many responsibilities, Mikey learning to cook to Leo attempting dangerous skate tricks. Sure it was dangerous or worrying, she just wants her brothers to be safe and happy, but none of it was truly life threatening. Now what IS new is the sudden spike in pure panic when she now has to worry about her and her brothers actually being actively hunted down/trying to fight for the greater good. Sheee is having a tough time dealing with her newfound anxiety/paranoia. (and rottmnt season two spoilers: this is another one with underlying anger issues, she never thought she could feel so much anger and resentment until she had to have a civil dinner with Baron Draxum. Kinda surprised her how much she wanted to fling the bowl of mashed potatoes at his stupid face.)

• What is their comfort breakfast

Lena= answered this once before, but its porridge! Porridge with sliced banana and honey drizzle on top and some floral tea.

Jin= she doesn't have any specific comfort foods; if it's something a friend or family makes it's instantly comforting! Though on cold rainy mornings just a simple cup of hot chocolate and jam spread on toast is enough.

Cathy= she LOVES pancakes with strawberries and cream, add to those Splinter's special tea and it's the most comforting meal ever.

#it was fun writting these for cathy and jin! #jin is stuff ive thought about a lot already and this is a good way to further develop cat! #Lena tired mom Jin drained therapist Cathy stressed sister bless their hearts #bee buzzes #fren ask #addy ask #my oc #oc lena #oc jin #oc cathy

[the-letter-horror-lover]

Notes:

So, you like?

Again, requests and feedback are appreciated. Otherwise I'll end up writing any old pairings (and that could be interesting)

See you next time (I hope) :)

Chapter 10: Similarities (Grell x Reader)

Notes:

Hey,

So here it is, the promised Grell fic. I ended up going with a transgender reader, as I felt it worked quite well with Grell (who I shall be referring to as 'she' for this fic).

Not the best thing I've ever wtitten, but I've done my best.

Hope you all enjoy

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

'For the last time, Grell, I'm not interested!' You shout at the red-headed. The two of you are in your kitchen, sipping tea and talking about your last collection. Unfortunately, the topic of conversation has changed to your 'relationship'. She's been trying to convince you to take her on a date for weeks now, despite you repeatedly telling her you're not interested.

It's not that you're not attracted to her; far from it. What with her flowing locks, her broad smile, that sadistic streak that made you stomach feel funny…

No, you can't do down that path. It'll only end up breaking both your hearts.

You see, you share something with Grell. Something that no one knows about. At least, no one below management level. It's something that you know will deter Grell, should she ever discover the truth.

To the whole world, you are a man. In actuality, you were born female.

You'd know the truth about yourself from a very young age. Every time you saw yourself in the mirror, you felt a great sadness, like the person you saw wasn't actually you at all. Your parents had tried to force you to be ladylike, but every time it felt like a façade. You're not a lady. You're a man. You just have the wrong bits.

When you'd told your parents, they hadn't taken kindly to the truth. They insisted it was 'just a phase' and that 'marrying a good man would change things'. So they'd shipped you off to the first noble that they could find, in the hopes that it would 'cure' you.

Unsurprisingly, it only made matters worse.

Your husband was a cold, unfeeling man, only interest in you for the purpose of creating heirs. Your life had become a living hell, trapped both in a body that wasn't right and a marriage that wasn't loving.

One night, you'd decided that life simply wasn't worth living. You'd ended your own life, in the hopes that death would free you from your life of misery.

However, you weren't counting on 'divine intervention'.

A grim reaper had requested that you join their order. Well, maybe 'requested' is too soft a word. 'Forced' is far more accurate. The reapers had taken you into their ranks, tasking you with collecting the souls of the recently departed.

Surprisingly, the reapers had listed you as being male, making them the first people to ever acknowledge your true identity. That fact brings you a great deal of joy, as does the fact that they've kept your 'biological makeup' a secret. As long as you remember to bind you breasts every morning, you secret shall never be discovered.

Not even by overly-persistent red heads.

Grell pouts at you. 'Come on, give a girl a break. I'm simply dying for some make company, and you're just the kind of man I want. One date. Pretty please? I just want to feel special for a change.' Her expression fills you with a desire to do just as she's asked you to. Surely one date was okay? Unless it goes well. Then she'll want another, and so will you for that matter. Before you know it, you're about to make love just before she asks why you haven't gotten it up for her. Then you'd have to tell her the truth, which would make her run a mile. It just wasn't worth the inevitable pain. You're better off alone.

'Grell, please, just leave it. You're a beautiful woman, you'll have no problem finding a man. That man just isn't me. I'm sorry, but there it is.' Grell looks at you like a kicked puppy. It makes you sad, but you know it's for the best.

'No, I won't. No man wants me! They all hit me and tell me to go away! You're not like that though! You're kind, and such a gentleman. I could be so good to you. Why won't you give me a chance?' Her hand brushes against your thigh, and the temptation is almost enough to make you lose your resolve.

You can't bring yourself to push her hand away as it creeps up your leg, heading for your crotch. You know your secret will be revealed as soon as the hand reaches its destination, but you almost don't care; you've never had anyone touch you with such intimacy. Sure, your husband had bedded you many a time, but there was no true intimacy in your sexual encounters. You close your eyes, enjoying these precious few moments before Grell discovers the truth.

Sure enough, her hand reaches your crotch, and she gasps in surprise. 'I don't understand. You're clearly somewhat aroused. Where's your erection? Am I so unappealing that you can't get it up for me?' You open your eyes, only to see tears in her eyes. You wipe them away with your hands; you're going to have to come clean now, if only to spare her feelings.

'It's not you. You're beautiful. It's me. I'm not the man you think I am. Technically, I'm not a man at all. I'm so sorry, Grell. Truly I am.' Grell's expression turns to one of anger; her comes her rejection. You only hope that she has the decency to keep your secret.

'How dare you say you're not a man?! You clearly are, otherwise I wouldn't think you're a dish! Who cares what's between your legs?! Am I less than a woman because I have a man's physique? No! I'm not! I am a woman and you are a man, so stop putting yourself do…' you cut her off with a kiss, being careful not to cut your tongue on her teeth. It feels so good, freeing all of your pent-up desires. You moan as she starts to unbutton your shirt, yanking it down your arms before tossing it away. You return the favour, removing Grell's coat and shirt in one go.

You pounce into her lap and start toying with her newly-exposed nipples, your own still hidden underneath your binding. Grell starts to let off a delightful series of moans as you continue to tease her, feeling her arousal rub against your centre.

You lean over to whisper in her ear. 'We shouldn't be doing this. A lady like you deserves to be pampered before she puts out. Are you sure you want to do this now?' You nibble on her ear, careful not to knock her glasses off.

She throws her head back in delight, moans growing louder. 'You can buy me dinner later! For now, please feel free to treat me like a whore.' You move to suck on her nipple, earning you a surprised gasp of pleasure. You take your time, throughly exploring your lover's chest until she's a panting mess. You stand, stripping her completely before shoving your bottoms off in one go. The only things remaining are your glasses and binding, as you move to straddle Grell again.

'How do you want to do this?' You say, rubbing your slit against her fully erect cock. She grabs your hips and mimics your actions, until you're both crying out so loudly you hope the neighbours are out. Grell starts nibbling on your ear.

'Are you comfortable with the idea of me being inside you? We can continue like this if you'd rather, but I am a big fan of penetration.' She bites your ear, which turns you on so much you think you'll finish before she even has a chance to enter your now-soaked passage.

You position yourself above her, giving your consent without verbalising it. She enters you swiftly, filling you in a single motion. Your dig your nails into her shoulders, begging her not to move for a moment. She stays perfectly still, panting heavily.

'Ah… you feel… so good. Never… experienced anything… quite like this. We were both… born in the wrong body, so… we should share… bodies… it'll make us whole…' her words ring true, but it's become hard to focus on anything other than your own pleasure.

You start to ride her slowly, keeping your hands on her shoulders for purchase. The chair creaks under you both, struggling to take your combined weight and sexual exertion. That's not enough to deter you, and you pick up the pace, riding Grell for all that she's worth.

Grell starts bucking her hips into you, eyes glazed over with pure ecstasy. You can feel your peak approaching quickly, and you hope she's close too.

You finally give into pleasure, crying out Grell's name into the night. She joins you, screaming loudly and thrusting like an animal in heat. The thrusts eventually prove too much for the chair, which collapses underneath you both. You continue to ride out your orgasms on the floor, both unwilling to stop until every last drop of pleasure has been squeezed out.

When you finally stop, you roll off of Grell, allowing her to slip out of you, combined juices dripping onto the kitchen floor. She snuggles into your chest, tracing little hearts onto your still-covered chest.

You both remain there in silence for a while, the weight of your actions hitting you suddenly. Your secret is out now, and you've just slept with your colleague. You're going to be in some serious shit tomorrow.

Eventually, Grell breaks the silence. 'So, where are you taking me for our first date, hm?'

Notes:

So, was it okay? I hope so :/

I only have one other request at the moment, so there's never been a better time to suggest something of your own. If you can tell me what you want, I can write it :)

Thank you for reading

Chapter 11: Apologies (Snake x Reader)

Notes:

Hey,

A little while ago, Illilex0DarkFire sent in this request; 'I liked the one with Snake, especially his snakes. I've never found snakes so cute. They are adorable. What about a Naga (half snake half human) female with him? It could be during the circus. I imagine a Naga would be either an attraction before or after the big top, or she could be part of Snake's act, like he's trying to "tame" her.'

I fear I should apologise in advance. I've had really bad writer's block, specifically relating to this story. I've rewritten and changed the scenario about four times, because I really wasn't satisfied with it. This is the best I can do, so I'm sorry if it's not exactly what you had in mind.

I've written the reader (who is half human and half snake) as someone who doesn't really understand how humans work, purely because that plays off of Snake quite well (in my mind at least).

I hope you all enjoy

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

'Honestly, you'd have thought she knows what to do by now!' Beast says to Joker scathingly. You know she's talking about you, but don't have the heart to make your presence known.

You are a Nagi, the female equivalent of a Naga. Your appearance is half woman, half snake, but you can transform your appearance into that of a human at will. That's what you've been doing for the past year, masquerading as human in order to blend in with the rest of the circus. You've been acting as an assistant to Snake, a quiet young man with a great love for all things serpentine. Over that time, you've become firm friends with with both him and his companions, who treat you as family. Your life is a happy one, filled with laughter and friendship.

At least, it has been.

Last night's show was a disaster, and now you're sure everyone hates you.

It had been going so well. The snakes were in high spirits, writhing and dancing with abandon across Snake's arms. You yourself were carrying a few snakes, although they were slightly more reserved, not wanting to make things difficult on you. As they started wrapping around your body, a voice had called out from the audience. 'How about you get those snakes to take your assistant's top off, huh? Bet she's hiding a right nice pair of tits under there!' You'd blushed bright red, looking to Snake for guidance. He remained unmoving, but you noticed he had started to blush too. You assumed that his silence meant 'ignore him', so you'd done just that.

Unfortunately, some men just won't be told.

He'd made his way to the edge of the ring, before catcalling you again. 'Come on love, show us what they look like! I'll pay extra if you let me have a squeeze.' You lost your temper, angered by his objectification on you. You'd order the snakes to get off of you, before walking straight up to the man and punching him square in the face. His nose started streaming blood, and the audience gasped in surprise. Even Snake looked shocked.

You'd stormed out of the tent, too upset to think rationally. You'd ended up falling asleep under some staging, crying into the mud below.

Now, in the cold light of day, you understand that you can't stay with the circus any longer.

That's why you now find yourself creeping around camp, trying to find a way to Snake's tent. You've been sharing it with him since you started, and it where your meagre belongings are. You plan to grab them and leave, starting life anew elsewhere. They won't forgive you for your outburst, so it's better that you don't say goodbye.

You slowly make your way to Snake's tent, somehow managing to avoid detection. You begin to pack your things, failing to notice the figure hidden at the back of the tent.

You almost faint with shock when a voice speaks to you. ''Where have you been? Snake has been worried sick!' Don't lecture her, Keats. I'm just glad to see her safe.' Snake appears from the back of the tent, still dressed in last night's clothes, eyes looking tired. Keats is sat on his shoulders, glaring at you.

You open your mouth to respond, but no words appear. Instead you just stare up at Snake, as if you're trying to connect to him telepathically. The silence is broken by Keats. ''Well, I'd better go and find the others. They're still out looking for her.' Good idea, Keats. I'll make sure she's okay.' The little white snake slithers off of Snake's shoulders and out of the tent, leaving only the two of you. He approaches you slowly, hands grabbing your bare arms. Your circus outfit consists of a corset top and skirts, not entirely dissimilar to Beast's. He looks at you, visibly concerned.

'You're freezing. Get into bed with me and I'll try to warm you up.' You know his suggestion is perfectly innocent, but you can't control the rush of heat it creates between your legs. Human arousal is something of a foreign concept to you, but you're pretty sure that's what this is.

You don't move, unsure of your new feelings. Snake decides to lift you off of the ground, putting you into the bed before crawling in next to you. The bed is nice and warm, which if anything makes you even more aroused. You're about to tell him about this new sensation, when you remember why you're so cold in the first place; you'd slept outside because everyone hates you.

Snake tries to take you into his arms, but you resist, afraid that he's only doing it out of pity. He shyly persists, trying to coax you in again. You reluctantly do as he wished, snuggling back into his embrace. For someone who is somewhat Snake himself, his embrace is surprisingly warm.

When he has you firmly in his embrace, he starts talking. 'I'm sorry I didn't stand up for you yesterday. I just didn't know how to. Please don't be upset with me anymore.' He starts stroking you soothingly, as if you're one of his snakes. It does the trick, your whole being starting to feel at ease. You wriggle around so you're facing him, noses almost touching.

'I didn't come back last night because I thought you were angry at me. I know I didn't react well to the situation. I'm just not used to human customs. Naga don't say things like that! We communicate interest in each other using pheromones, not crude language. What is the human obsession with breasts anyway? All the do is provide sustenance for offspring. Do you find my breasts attractive?' You grab one of his hands, and place it over one of your breasts.

The reaction from both of you is instant.

Snake turns crimson, sporting the most peculiar expression you've ever seen. It's like a mix between shock, embarrassment, and something else that you think is desire.

Your reaction is pure desire, moaning as his palm makes contact with your nipple. You may not understand what attracts human men to breasts, but you certainly know why woman allow such behaviour.

You stare at each other, frozen in the moment. You're half expecting him to retract his hand, but he doesn't. Instead, he gently squeezes your breast, before moving his hand so he can toy with you nipple. You let out a series of mewling cries, rubbing your legs together in an attempt to aid the feelings that have started in that region. Your whole body feels hot, and you start to release pheromones without even realising. Emboldened by your response, Snake brings his other hand up to gasp your free breast so that he can give it the same treatment. You shift slightly to give him easier access, before you close your eyes in bliss.

Just as you begin to get used to the sensation, he moves his hands away suddenly, as if your body is so hot it's scalded them. You open your eyes to look at him. He's looking at you, lust burning in his eyes. You want to know why he's stopped, but he answers your question before you ask it.

'I find your breasts extremely attractive. Perfect, in fact. I've never had the chance to touch breasts before. I'd really like to play with them more. Can I?' You're more than willing to let him continue, but you feel like other places need stimulation too. If you had your tail, you'd tell him to stimulate your cloaca. What's the human equivalent of that? You have no idea, but yours is in desperate need of some attention. Maybe if you describe the act, he'll be willing to do as you want.

You suddenly sit up, and move to straddle Snake's hips, breasts hanging in front of his face. You feel something hard between his legs, and assume it's the human equivalent of a hemipenis. It feels good between your legs, and you have to fight the urge to start rubbing yourself against it; you need to tell him what you want.

'You can touch me all you want, if you agree to engage in coitus with me.' He grabs hold of your breasts again, picking up where he left off as he starts to rub himself against you. You begin moaning again, moving your hands to his thighs and gripping them tightly, afraid of losing balance. You can feel a great deal of moisture forming between your legs, which you assume is your body's way of preparing for him. He starts groaning, but somehow manages to spit out a verbal response.

'I've never… done this before. Everyone… everyone thinks I'm a freak, but not… not you. You're… like me. You're different too. It's like… it's like the heavens made you just for me. I want to… spend all day entwined with you… just the two of us. Can we do that?' He's asking you a question, but you're so wrapped up in your own pleasure than you barely hear him.

Suddenly, he sits up, pushing you onto your back before he starts looming over you. He sucks at your neck, and you can't help but scream 'YES!' at the top of your voice. He takes that as you answering his question, and prepares to enter you. He puts a hand between your legs, feeling for your opening. You feel a finger slip inside of you, making you gasp. Snake makes a small noise of approval. 'That's where I need to enter you I guess. Are you ready?' You don't know if your body is ready, but mentally you're well past the point of being ready. You spread your legs wide, in the hope that it'll give him better access to his target. He seems to approve, lining himself up with you before sliding into you.

It hurts. A lot. You feel your insides stretch to accommodate him, and hope that he isn't too rough with you. When he's fully seated inside of you, you expect him to begin rutting into you in earnest. To your surprise, he remains perfectly still, save for his mouth covering you in kisses. Gradually, the pain fades away.

You feel like you want Snake to move now, but you've no idea what to say to him. You wiggle your hips, hoping he gets the message. It seems to work, as he slowly withdraws himself from your body, only to re-enter you again with some degree of force.

You fall into a gentle rhythm, neither of you in any hurry to do anything else but this today. He spends his time whispering endearments into you ear, saying things such as 'you're so beautiful' and 'you feel so amazing'. You feel something building inside of you, but you're not sure what it is. All you know is that you want to know what it's leading up to.

He speeds up, clearing feeling something building himself. His words start to become more randomised, saying things like 'tight', 'soft', and 'warm'. You feel set to discover what the feeling inside of you is building up to, and finally find out when he yells something you never thought you'd hear him say; 'Mine!'.

It feels as if every nerve in your body has been burnt, limbs shaking uncontrollably as you lose all ability to think. You're somewhat aware of Snake's erratic movements, but are far too focused on your own feelings to be fully concerned about his. Suddenly, you feel him stiffen for a moment, before thrusting into you more. You feel something warm coat your insides, and realise that he's finished mating with you.

He collapses onto your chest, hand coming up to gently caress a breast. You both take a moment to calm your breathing, before Snake speaks again.

'Please don't go storming off again. You belong here, with me.' You stroke his hair softly.

'I'm not going anywhere.'

Notes:

Hey, it's me again.

I'd like to reissue my apology. I'm sorry if it isn't what you were hoping for. I may do another Snake story in the future (because I've had another request for him), but for now, this is the best I could do.

If anyone else wants to see me try my hardest to fill a prompt, why not leave one in the comments? I'll give it a go, no matter what it is.

Next on my list is Sebastian, followed by Lau (and Ran-Mao, because threesomes)

Hope to see you all soon

Chapter 12: Imagination (Sebastian x Reader)

Notes:

Hello,

GreatestPotato sent in the following prompt:

'Boo: Sebastian (he's trash I love 'im).

OC: I don't really have one. I'd like her to be tall though. I'm 5'11 and I feel left out sometimes (⌒-⌒; )

Story: I wouldn't want to impose here. Maybe Reader-chan is bossy and/ or uptight (feels safe due to superior He-Man height) and Sebby takes her down a few pegs? Idk that's the only way I could think of that height isn't a useless detail. Feel free to come up with whatever ya want though.

Sin level: Upper stratosphere.'

Well, here it is. I'm actually pretty pleased with how it turned out, which is very unusual for me :O

I hope you all enjoy :3

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

You wander confidently through the foyer of the Phantomhive manor. The other guests eye you up apprehensively, clearly unnerved by your height.

You see, most men are used to looking down on women, and most women are used to seeing other women at eye level. However, given that you're just under six foot tall (or just over in heels, which you're currently wearing), you fit outside of those social particulars. Most women would despise this, trying all they could to appear small and demure. Not you though; you're proud of your height, and chose to flaunt it at every opportunity.

This event has been no exception. Lord Phantomhive has chosen to throw a party for Elizabeth, his dear Fiancé. As her family are on good terms with yours, at least one of you was expected to attend. As the eldest daughter, you had volunteered yourself. Your family were delighted; they've been trying to find you a husband for a while now, so you going to a party full of rich singletons is simply delightful in their eyes. No doubt they're expecting you to be snapped up by some random earl with his own estate and a few servants. Alas, all these earls are far too weak for your taste. In the few courtships you've had, you have been the dominant one, always in command and in control. That's all very well and good, but you desire a man that can snatch control away from you. You want a man to drag into a room, ravish you beyond comprehension, and order you to walk out of that room as if nothing has happened. You want a man that'll tie you to your bedposts and spend hours teasing your body until you cry out in frustration. You want a man that'll leave you feeling sore and satisfied after every encounter.

Why can't a man like that exist?!

Your eyes scan the room, searching for someone to talk to. After all, if you can't find your dream partner, what's the harm in having a little fun? You do so love the way men stutter as they talk to you, masculinity apparently compromised by your height.

Your eyes land on a positive midget of a lord, barely over five foot tall. You start to walk over to him, when you notice a pair of eyes staring at you just behind him. You look up, planning on giving him a piece of your mind. His gaze makes you stop in your tracks.

His eyes are a remarkable crimson colour, and his stare is so intense it makes your knees feel weak. There's a hunger in his eyes, like a predator eyeing up its next meal. Oh how you'd love him to devour you whole. Alas, he's probably just like everyone else. Meek, timid, only staring because he didn't think you'd notice. Although something about him makes you wonder if he is different…

You start walking again, approaching him with confidence. You've decided that he is your target tonight. You're going to tease him until he's a puddle of lust and anxiety, then lap him up, like a kitten with a saucer of milk. You stop mere inches away from him, expecting him to step back, unnerved by your proximity.

He doesn't move so much as a centimetre.

He's still looking at you, waiting for you to talk no doubt. Men seldom know how to properly start a conversation.

'It's incredibly rude to stare, sir.' There we go, that'll make him falter. He's taller than you'd initially thought, a few inches above your height. That makes you even more determined to break him; you've never made someone taller than you break before. He'll look delightful on his hands and knees before you, begging for a taste of you. You fight the urge to blush; whatever happened to hating being the dominant one?

He's doesn't miss a beat before responding. 'If you think my gaze is impolite, then I shan't tell you what I've been imagining.' You have to fight the urge to gasp; no man has ever responded to you in such a way before. He's going to be a challenge, and you love a challenge.

You fold your arms under your breasts, encouraging them to jump out a bit from your low cut dress. The sight of cleavage puts most men's minds in a tizzy, and you're certain he'll be no exception.

You lean forward a little too, ensuring he has the best view possible. 'I doubt it'll shock me, sir. I've been in all sorts of positions before, so there really isn't anything you can say that I'll consider impolite.' That'll have him blushing for sure. All Victorians are, by nature, very prude, so the thought of you in many compromising positions is sure to throw his confidence.

He smirks at you, and leans forward to whisper in your ear. His proximity makes you shiver, and you try desperately to stay still. His voice is low and smooth as he continues talking.

'I've been imagining stealing you away from this terribly dull affair, so quietly and with such subtlety that no one will notice your absence. First I intend to force you onto your knees in an alcove somewhere, before making you perform fellatio until I pour my essence down your throat. When you've swallowed every last drop, I'll drag you into my bedchambers, tearing off this dress of yours before tying you down upon my bed. I think I'll gag you for good measure; I wouldn't want your cries of pleasure to ruin our fun.

'When I have you where I want you, the real fun begins. I'm going to take my time with you, running my tongue over ever last inch of your flesh. By the time I'm finished doing so, your arousal will be dampening the bed below you, so I'll have to clean it up. I'll lick you out slowly, bringing you close to the edge before stoping, leaving you feeling aching and frustrated. I'll continue doing this until I hear your muffed pleas under the gag, and see the tears of denied release streaming from your eyes. Only then shall I strip down, and thrust myself inside of you.

'I shall take you with such force that you shall be left with bruises that will take weeks to heal. You'll reach your peak again and again, before you beg me to stop. I shall stop eventually, but only after I've had my fill of you. My release shall be long and plentiful, filling you to the brim with my seed. When I am done, you'll expect me to release you. I shall do no such thing. Instead, I shall return to the party, attending to my master as you remain helpless and sore on my bed, wondering how a mere butler could please you so thoroughly.

'I think I shall keep you in my chambers for a least a month. I shall deny all knowledge of your location, when Scotland Yard make their inquires. I shall say I saw you walk out into the night, presumably looking for a cab. They'll never suspect that you're in my room, dozing lightly after being taken by me yet again. When I've finally had my fill of you, I'll let you leave this place, on the condition you keep me a secret. You'll go back to your mundane life of attending balls and teasing men, constantly craving my touch. Perhaps I shall crave you too. Maybe I'll start paying you visits in the dead of night, having my way with you as your household sleeps. I wonder how they'd take it if you ended up with child. Would they force you to marry some noble fool? Or would they disown you, and leave you free to return to me? I'd gladly take you in, delighting in having my plaything close at hand once more.

'That is what I've been imaging, my dear. Do you perhaps consider it impolite after all?' Your whole face is burning, and your arousal has ruined your underwear. No man has ever spoken to you so frankly, or described in perfect detail what he wishes to do to you. It's enough to make you want to fall to your knees and beg for it, but you manage to keep from doing so. Instead, you swallow hard, responding with all of your remaining bravado.

'Talk is cheap, sir, and quite frankly, I doubt you'd be able to do half of what you've imagined. After all, if you really are just a butler, what makes you think a noble woman like me will let you do such carnal things? You are clearly delusional, sir, and I have no desire to speak with you further.' You make to move away, certain that he'll beg you to stay. Instead, he grabs your arm, forcing you to stay. His whispers in your ear again, although this time there is a threatening undertone to his words.

'I'm not 'just a butler', my dear. I'm one hell of a butler, and I swear on my household's good name that I shall have carnal knowledge of you before the evening is done. In fact, should you choose to keep playing games with me, then I swear I shall punish you before I use you for my own pleasure. Do you still believe I am delusional? I assure you, you won't be thinking that in the morning.' He lets go, lust burning in those eyes of his. You suddenly realise that he's serious about what he's said. This man truly believes that he can dominate you, that he can have you begging for mercy! You decide to bait him further, wanting to provoke him into action.

'I'll play games with whomever I choose, sir. After all, it's so much fun to tease men. They always talk such a big game, but in the end, I'm always the one who wins.' You've basically issued a challenge. The question is, will he accept it?

Before he can answer you, your host begins tapping at a glass. He's about to make a speech, so all of the guests make their way over to him, including yourself. You end up at the edge of the crowd, barely catching a glimpse of the small earl. During your migration, you've lost sight of the butler.

'Probably has to do something for his master.' You think. 'Such a shame, I was enjoying our game. Oh well, I'll just have to find another playmate.' Your eyes scan the crowd, as you search for your next target. Before you get a chance to find one, you feel a gloved hand cover your mouth.

You try to scream, but find that the hand is too big to allow noise to escape your mouth. An arm wraps itself around you, and you flail around desperately, trying to get someone's attention. Everyone is too focused on Lord Phantomhive to notice, to your assailant succeeds in dragging you away.

When you're a reasonable distance away from the crowd, he shoves you into an alcove, and it dawns on you who it is; it's the butler, come to make good on his promise.

His voice in your ear confirms it. 'If you keep fighting me, I won't be able to pleasure either of us properly. I'm taking my hand away now. If you so much as whimper, then I'll have to take measures to silence you. I believe I mentioned fellatio earlier?' You thing you like the sound of him silencing you in such a way, but you resolve to keep quiet, far more interested in what he'll do to you if you behave.

He takes his hand away, and you remain silent. 'Good girl. I must admit, I was expecting you to try and turn the tables on me. I get the impression you're usually the one in control, due mostly to your imposing stature I presume. Tonight, you can say goodbye to that control, because I submit to no woman, tall or otherwise. With that said, I'd like to play a game of my own. I'm sure you'll like it.' He pushes your torso forward so that your hands are on the wall, but your hips are still against his own. He gathers up your dress, pushing it up your legs so that he can see your underwear. He coaxes your legs open, before lapping at the sizeable wet patch he finds there. You're about to gasp, but he stands up, shoving what you assume is a glove into your mouth. He leans over to whisper to you, his erection pressing against your rear.

'The rules are quite simple; you must remain silent whilst I take you. If you make too much noise, the other guests shall rush over to see what is happening. I take it you'd rather not allow an entire room full of lords and ladies to see you being debauched by your host's servant, now would you?' You shake your head. 'Good. After we've finished here, you are to return to the party as if nothing has happened, mingling as usual. I shall collect you later, under the pretence of a cab arriving for you. The rest of the evening shall consist of me making my fantasy into reality. You're in for the best night of your life, and I'm about to give you a taster. Are you willing to comply?' You're surprised that he's asking permission; you were beginning to think he'd do what he wanted without your consent. You nod your head eagerly, desperate for him to prove that his words aren't empty. After all, this is something you've fantasised about time and time again. You have no intention of passing up this opportunity, even if you don't even know the man's name!

He pulls your underwear down, and you step out of it on one side, leaving it dangling on an ankle. You hear a zip being undone behind you, before feeling something hard press into your opening.

He enters you suddenly, bottoming out before slowly dragging himself out again. He continues that for a while, entering quickly and forcefully before pulling out gradually and gently. It drives you mad, and makes your whole body ache for him. You want to yell at him to go faster, but you can't, due to both your game and your makeshift gag. Instead you just stand there and take what he gives you, hoping that he speeds up of his own volition.

It doesn't take long before he does just that, hands digging into your hips as he fucks you in earnest, abusing your depths with precise and controlled thrusts. Your whole body feels hot, dress suddenly feeling too warm. The feeling intensifies when he starts rubbing your clit, and the thrusting causes your breasts to pop out of their fabric confines. You've never felt so alive, and you know that when you reach your peak, it shall be glorious.

It's not long until you're proven right, as an orgasm hits you so hard you have to shove your mouth into your arm to keep from screaming in pleasure. Your channel flutters and contracts around him, and that sends him over too. He spills into you, groaning into your back as he does. You bask in the sensation of being filled by him, and thank every deity that'll listen for providing you with the lover of your dreams.

When he's done, you adjust yourselves quickly, trying to remove any evidence of your activities before the other guests get suspicious. You hand him his glove, and make to head back to the group his hand grabs your arm.

'My name is Sebastian, by the way. I suggest you learn it quickly, because I shall have you screaming it by dawn.'

Notes:

So, did I do the prompt justice? I hope so :/

If you'd like to request something of your own, feel free to comment what you'd like. I'll take on and fulfil anything :P

Hope to see you soon :)

Chapter 13: A Smuggler's Tale (Lau X Reader X Ran-Mao)

Notes:

Greetings, one and all,

I've decided to do my own little event! Since I have had three threesome requests lately, I hereby welcome you to…

The Three-Day Threesome Event!

That's right, over the next three days I shall be posting three different threesomes, one after the other (providing that my internet doesn't crap out. Then it'll be a four-day thing, which will just be silly).

Fear not, those of you who have requested stories involving only one other person. I have a full lists of works pending, and shall be releasing an upload list after the final threesome is complete.

With that said, our first story was a request from KG, who said 'I would love to see Lau, if you find inspiration for him. Maybe even Lau and RanMao at the same time. *cough*'

You asked for it, so here it is!

(Contains mild DubCon. You have been warned.)

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

It's a dismal day down at the docks. The kind of day that makes you want to go home and hide under the duvet for a week. Alas, one such as you has no time for such a luxury.

The life of a smuggler is a difficult one.

You've been smuggling opium into the country for a few months now, after an eccentric Chinaman by the name of Lau had picked you up off the streets. He'd offered you a food and shelter, in exchange for your assistance smuggling in his illegal goods. When you'd asked him why you, he'd said 'because you're unassuming enough not to be noticed, yet pretty enough to charm your way out of trouble.' You weren't entirely sure what he meant by that, but you weren't about to turn down a chance to get off the streets. You'd accepted his offer gratefully, and gone with him to start your new life.

Since then you've been on good terms with Lau, owing mostly to your many successful operations. You're his finest agent, and he knows it. Even his right-hand Ran-Mao shows you a degree of respect. You're almost friends with the quiet young woman.

Today's job is a nice and easy one; a familiar route with familiar cohorts. It's a small shipment, too, so it'll be harder for the yard to find. There's not a thing that can go wrong.

Unless of course one of your group has decided to sell you out.

As the boat comes in, you begin to notice one of your group acting jittery. It's a young lad, name of Smith. He's only been on the job a fortnight, which makes this his biggest job to date. Assuming that his jitters are due to nerves, you walk over to the lad, putting a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

'You have nothing to worry about. Trust me, I've used this route plenty of times. The Bobbies don't have a clue what's going on here. It'll be fine, I promise.' You give him a little smile, but he still seems jittery. You decide that this calls for drastic measures.

'Look, I've some booze in my bag. You give me two seconds to grab it from the car, and I'll let you have a swig. It'll calm your nerves.' Before he can protest, you're off, heading straight to the car. You have to fiddle about with the keys for a bit, your own nerves starting to show. It just proves that no matter how many times you've done something, it doesn't take away the nerves. You're beginning to think you need a swig of booze, too.

As you finally put the key in the lock, the boat comes in. You breath a sigh of relief, everything going according to plan.

That's when the first of the peelers show up.

You watch on as Smith runs towards them, cowering within their ranks. That little bastard has betrayed you! No one he seemed so nervous! You'd like nothing more than to punch his lights out, but you've got much bigger problems; namely, how the hell are you going to get away?

You see, there's an agreement amongst Lau's smugglers; if the rozzers show up, it's every man for themselves. Not because you're all selfish though; it's because one of you has to get word back to Lau, so he try and resolve the situation. He usually calls in favours from the earl of Phantomhive, who is content to let him run his business in exchange for information and favours. Given the current position of your fellow smugglers, you know that you're the one who'll have to send word back to Lau this time.

Deciding that the car will be too noisy, you abandon it, opting to run for it instead. You weave your way through London's numerous alleyways, trying to find your way to Lau's opium den. You don't hear anyone behind you, so you assume you've slipped away undetected.

Finally, after running for what feels like an eternity, you reach Lau's den.

You let yourself in, albeit apprehensively. You've never had to deliver him bad news before, so you have no idea how he'll take it.

The air is thick with smoke, the smell of the opium almost overpowering. Your eyes scan the room, trying to gage how many customers are in today. You spot a few regulars, surrounded by scantily clad women. You're glad Lau doesn't make you work here, surrounded by overweight businessmen with lecherous tendencies.

You make your way over to Lau, who is sat in his usual spot at the back of the room, Ran-Mao in his lap, overseeing his guests. There are a few guards littered around the place too, so you hope he won't mind you having a quiet word with you away from prying ears.

You approach him nervously. 'Boss? I have some news about our latest shipment. May we speak privately for a moment?' He's smiling his usual sly smile, almost as if he's been expecting you. He strokes a hand down Ran-Mao's leg.

'Why, if it isn't my favourite smuggler! I always have time for you, my dear. Let's retire to my room; we'll have plenty of privacy there.' There's an undercurrent to his words, but you can't quite figure out what it is…

You don't have time to think about it either, as Ran-Mao jumps off his lap and grabs your arms, dragging you towards Lau's room. You've never been in his room before, so you're looking forward to seeing how it looks. That's about the only think you're looking forward to at the moment…

Ran-Mao opens a rather sizeable door, and takes you inside, waiting for Lau to enter before shutting it again. You hear it lock shut, and swallow anxiously as your eyes take in your surroundings.

The whole room is covered in exotic-looking furnishings. From the oriental wall hanging to his ivory statues, it's clear to see he draws design inspiration from his homeland. The centrepiece of the room is an ornate queen-sized bed, it's canopy and mattress both adorned with fine silks. He clearly makes a lot of money doing what he does, otherwise he wouldn't be able to afford such a bed.

He sits on the bed, facing you. You remain standing, keenly aware of Ran-Mao's presence behind you. You think it odd, given how she usually clings to his side like a lost child. The abnormality unnerves you greatly, and you swallow hard before delivering your report.

'I'm sorry to say that one of your men has betrayed us. He tipped the yard off, and they surrounded us. I was only able to get away because I was fetching something from the car. I apologise that I didn't see the deception coming.' You hold your breath, awaiting his response. He looks you up and down, clearing thinking hard about his answer.

You're about to apologise again when he finally speaks. 'Oh dear, that is very bad news indeed. I shall have to write to the Little Lord as soon as possible. Which of my agents betrayed me?' He seems to be taking it quite well, all things considered.

'It was Smith, boss. The new boy. I thought he looked a bit suspicious…' Lau opens his eyes wide so he can stare into yours. He gaze is almost frightening. Have you said something wrong?

'You thought he looked suspicious, yet you did nothing? It sounds to me like you're just as guilty as he is. That shipment may have only been a small one, but Ran-Mao and I have still lost out today. What I want to know is how are you going to pay us back?' You open your mouth in shock a little. There's no way you can pay him back! That opium is worth way more than Lau gives you for smuggling it! Maybe if he's willing to take it in instalments, you'll be able to pay him back in a year or so, provided that he doesn't ask for any interest.

When you propose the idea to him, he scoffs at you, and looks at Ran-Mao. You feel her grab the bottom of your shirt, and before you can protest she yanks it off, revealing your bare torso to Lau. You immediately cover yourself with your hands. Lau chuckles a little.

'Personally, I was rather hoping you'd pay us back all in one go; your body shall do nicely.' With that, Ran-Mao grabs your wrists, forcing them together behind your back before you feel cold metal against your skin, and hear the telltale sound of handcuffs clicking shut. She pushes you towards Lau, who leans forward takes a nipple into his mouth. You gasp in surprise, not expecting it to feel so pleasurable. You start to squirm about in pleasure, subconsciously rubbing your legs together to try and create friction between your legs. Ran-Mao is having none of it, spreading your legs apart and restraining you so in such a way that means you can't move an inch.

The helplessness turns you on more than you'll ever admit.

Lau switches nipples, making sure to give it the same treatment he gave its twin. By the times he's finished, both of your nipples stand glistening and erect before him, and your clit is practically begging for the same treatment.

He bunches up the bottom of his changshan, before pulling his trousers down, revealing his rather prominent erection. Ran-Mao forces you to kneel before him, so your head is mere inches from his tip. She grabs your head and prepares to bring it closer, but Lau stops her with a look. 'Patience, Ran-Mao. We can't force her to pay us back. She must offer to willingly, otherwise we're nothing but thieves! Do you want to pay us back? Or would you rather we punish you for your mistake?' It's become very difficult to think in your current position, but you do your best to weigh up your options. Are you willing to let your boss use you like this?

The wetness between your legs suggests that yes, you are very willing indeed.

The other option is punishment, but you've no idea what that might entail. You decide to ask. 'What is the punishment, boss?' He smirks down at you.

'It's this, but without the element of choice.' Ah, you should have suspected as much. You decide to continue your questioning.

'So basically, I don't have a choice?' He threads his hand through your hair, like he's petting you.

'Of course you have a choice. You can choose to believe that you have a choice, or you can choose to let me take away the illusion of choice. The choice is yours.' His words are jumbled and confusing, to the point you wished you'd never asked him. It has helped you make a decision, however;

You open wide, and take his cock into your mouth. If you have to do this, it'll be knowing that you chose to do so, even if you never really had a choice.

Deciding that all this talk of choice is pointless, you apply yourself to the task at hand, bobbing your head up and down eagerly. Lau's hand grips your hair, and he bucks his hips into your mouth, fucking it in earnest. It's almost enough to make you gag, but you somehow manage to relax your throat enough to stop your reflex from triggering.

While he abuses your mouth, Ran-Mao lifts you into her lap, keeping your legs separated once again. Her hands start toying with you nipples, making you moan in delight. The vibrations feel wonderful around Lau's erection, and he has to fight to stop himself from spilling into you; he has a plan that he's yet to tell you off.

He forces your head to stay still, and stills his own hips. The only one still moving is Ran-Mao, who is clearly enjoying teasing you. You have to fight with your lustful haze to be able to comprehend Lau's instructions. 'When I release, I don't want you to spit or swallow. You must keep it in your mouth; I'd hate it to go to waste, after all.' Instructions given, he picks up where he left off, thrusts becoming considerably quicker.

He finishes inside of your mouth without warning, and you have to fight the urge to swallow on instinct. He pumps himself in and out a few more times, causing his seed to trickle out of the corners of your mouth a little. That doesn't appear to bother him, and he releases himself from your mouth with a squelching noise.

You keep his release in his mouth as he moves, almost falling flat on your face when Ran-Mao moves too. They trade places, Ran-Mao on the bed and Lau behind you. He toys with you the same way she did, and you're not sure how much more you can take.

Ran-Mao removes all of her clothing before wrapping her thighs around your neck, forcing your head between her legs. You've never been so close to another woman's genitals before, and you're beginning to wonder why; the sight is quite delightful.

Lau issues his instructions. 'See if you can transfer what's in your mouth to Ran-Mao. It might get a little messy, but it'll be so much fun to watch.' You do as he asked, inserting your tongue into the woman before you. She gasps, both hands threading through your hair. You do your best to transfer the contents of your mouth into her, but it's incredibly difficult, especially with her own juices flowing so freely.

When they feel like you've completed your task, Ran-Mao removes herself from you, before rolling backwards so that her head is propped against the pillows. She spreads her legs and starts playing with herself, the sight turning you on immensely. Lau forces you to stand, before he removes your trousers and your underwear. He shoves you on top of Ran-Mao, before he begins to undress slowly. 'You two ladies have fun whilst I warm myself up again.' You follow his instructions again, moving so that you're straddling Ran-Mao's hips. It's not an easy task, with your hands still cuffed behind you, but you somehow manage, eager to find some pleasure of your own today.

The two of you end up kissing passionately, tongues intertwined as you rub against each other, desperate for stimulation. Her hands move to grope your breasts, and for the first this evening she speaks. 'So soft…' she moans between kisses, and it's enough to make you moan yourself.

Without warning, you're yanked down her body, until you're directly in front of her opening again. She spreads her legs for you, and you take the hint, eating her out as passionately as you kissed her. You feel a finger slip inside of you, and surmise that Lau is ready to join in again.

You work on Ran-Mao the best you can without the use of your hands, trying to alternate between her channel and her clit. It's a difficult task, but you think you're doing well, judging by her moaning and sighing.

Lau ends up sticking three fingers into you, ensuring that you're suitably prepared for him. He withdraws his fingers unexpectedly, and offers them to Ran-Mao. She takes them in one at a time, sucking away your juices hungrily. When she's done, Lau decides he wants a taste of his own. He plunges his tongue into you, and laps away like a cat lapping up cream. It's almost enough to send you over, but he stops before you have a chance to. He bends over you, lining himself up with your entrance. 'You taste quite delicious. You shall have to let us taste you more often.' With that, he enters you, completely filling you in a single thrust.

His pace is rapid, clearly desperate to release again. You're pretty sure you'll get there first, as your nipples are now rubbing against the sheets, creating a delightful friction. Ran-Mao is also looking pretty close, one hand in your hair and one hand on her breast. It's only a matter of time before one of you goes over, and you can't wait to see who it is.

Unsurprising, it's you.

You scream into Ran-Mao, trying to keep up your ministrations as the world around you ceases to exist for a while. You apparently keep them up well, as she finishes moments after you, her juices following down your throat like the sweetest wine imaginable.

The sight of the two of you climaxing is too much for Lau, who finishes with a grunt, emptying himself into you with a series of hard thrusts.

The three of you eventually collapse, sprawled out on the bed. Ran-Mao reaches for something nearby; the key to your cuffs.

When you're finally free, Lau pulls you and Ran-Mao to his chest, wrapping an arm around both of you. You and Ran-Mao hold hands over him, and the try to regain your composure. Lau is the one who regains it first, which is rather impressive for a man who's just finished twice within the space of two hours. His words somehow make you blush, despite the fact that there's no reason you should be embarrassed.

'You know what, paying us back in instalments sounds like a good idea after all. Same time next week?'

Notes:

Here endeth the first threesome. I thank you all for reading it.

I shall still be taking request as normal. In fact, there's probably never been a better time to ask, what with my upload schedule being compiled as I type ;)

Tomorrow's threesome shall be a double helping of Charles'. Until then, I hope you enjoyed ;)

enjoyed ;)

Chapter 14: Her Majesty's Orders (Charles Grey X Reader X Charles Phipps)

Notes:

Hello!

Day two of three, and it's time for some more fun :3 this one comes from a request made by ALWAlways, who said 'speaking of threesome's, how about one with the Double Charles' and some double pen. X-D I think all three of "us" can have some fun with each other!'

So it was requested, so shall it be written ;)

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

It's early evening, and the sun is rapidly setting over the horizon. You're currently soaking yourself in the bath, allowing yourself to reflect on the last few days.

Your family have always served royalty, for as long as anyone can remember. Officially you've acted as loyal supporters, always willing to back the crown in parliamentary matters. Unofficially, you act as spies, sneaking into parties and such to collect information for her Majesty's benefit. As heir to your family's estate, you have attended a great many parties lately, trying desperately to find something of interest to her Majesty. The first few parties provided you with a veritable plethora of knowledge, that was quickly relayed to your royal master. However, since your initial success, there's been very little of interest to tell. Until five nights ago that is…

Whist attending a party at some noble household or another (you can't remember which, as they all look the same to you), you overheard a plan to assassinate two members of her Majesty's inner circle; her butlers, Charles Grey and Charles Phipps. Knowing how much her Majesty cares for her butlers, you'd attempted to relay the new immediately, only to find yourself blocked at every turn! All of your regular channels were either away on business or otherwise preoccupied, and you couldn't just barge into Buckingham Palace and demand an audience! Eventually, you'd decided to write to both men targeted, preying that they received the letters on time.

The next day, the papers ran a story about an assassination.

Your heart had leapt into your throat; you were too late.

Thankfully, all was not as it seemed, for the Double Charles' are more cunning than they seem.

They'd both managed to avoid the assassin, who's bullets had hit a footman instead. They'd then managed to apprehend the man in question, and successfully unraveled a plot to kill off her Majesty's entire inner circle. They were both praised as heroes, and you breathed a sigh of relief, glad that the Queen's butlers are so skilled in everything they do.

You exit the bath, deciding that you've had enough reminiscing for one night. Tomorrow, you are attending a gathering that is being hosted by the Earl of Phantomhive, so you intend to retire early so that you're well-rested; that household is always a reliable source of information. You dry your hair throughly, disliking the way that it dampens the pillows if it's not dry enough. Deciding that you've done a good enough job, you exit the bathroom, your body clad only in a towel.

As you head to your bedroom, you hear raised voices, presumably coming from the inside. The loudest voice is that of your butler, who is clearly displeased about something.

'Gentlemen, please. This is a lady's bedchamber! You can't just barge in here, no matter who you are!' Ah, you have nosey visitors, then. No matter, you'll just play the affronted lady and force them to leave. After all, they wouldn't want to upset one of the Queen's closest allies.

You enter your room with confidence, only to feel it shatter when you see who's inside.

Stood not two foot away, both clad in their pristine uniforms, are Charles Grey and Charles Phipps; the Double Charles's have come to pay to a visit.

Charles Grey rolls his eyes dramatically. 'Finally, she's here! Tell your butler to bugger off so we can talk in private!' You're a little taken aback by his corse language, but you turn to address your butler nonetheless.

'Could you give us some privacy, please. I shall bell if I require assistance.' He bows his head to you.

'Yes, Ma'am.' He says, before he exits the room, leaving you alone with the two men. You've only spoken to them a few times, but they never fail to make you feel small. Grey's brash confidence always takes you by surprise, whereas Phipps' quiet confidence sends shivers down your spine. The two men are like fire and ice, and they've both come to see you.

Grey speaks once again. 'Phipps and I both received your letters. A pity they arrived the day after we were almost murdered in broad daylight!' He's seems angry, as well he probably should. He was almost killed, after all.

Phipps takes a step forward, looking you straight in the eyes as he talks. 'Her Majesty is most displeased with you. She views your failure to inform us of the plot on time as a disgrace, and questions your loyalty to her as a result. What do you have to say for yourself?' Oh, shit! You're being accused of treason! You have to say something quickly, or else it's you head!

You begin to stutter out excuses. 'I tried my best to reach the palace, but all of my usual contacts were unavailable! I didn't wish to impose on her Majesty without warning, so I sent you the letters. I'm dreadfully sorry that they didn't arrive on time, but I swear to you, my loyalty has never faltered. I am, and will always be, unwaveringly loyal to the crown!' You hope you've done enough to convince them, although their faces suggest that you haven't; they don't look impressed.

Grey makes a noise with his tongue. 'Psh, what pathetic excuses. You knew full well that Phipps and I were being targeted, and still only did the bare minimum to contact us! Your actions are a disgrace, and her Majesty has every right to have you sent to the tower!' You want to cry; not the tower. Anything but that! The shame of such a thing would destroy your family, not to mention the fact that you'll have to spend the rest of your life behind bars!

Phipps notices your distress. 'We are here to test your loyalty. If you are found wanting, we will have no choice to relay the sad news to her Majesty.' His words allow you to steel your nerves; you've never backed down from a challenge. If your loyalty is being tested, then you're going to do everything you can to make sure you pass!

You put you hands on your hips. 'I have already told you, my loyalty is unwavering. I shall complete any test you see fit to give me, abs I shall do so without failure!' To your surprise, Phipps cracks a smile.

The same cannot be said for Grey.

He mimics your position, placing his hand on his hips. 'Go on then! Tell us how far you are willing to go to prove your loyalty!' That's quite the test! How far are you willing to go?

You consider telling them you'll throw yourself off of London Bridge to prove yourself, but think better of it; whatever you suggest, they'll almost certainly want to see in action!

You start to think of more realistic things. Walking across hot coals? Terribly painful. A blood oath? Too unhygienic. Getting on your hands and knees and begging for forgiveness in front of an entire cathedral full of people? Better that hot coals, but far too humiliating. Then again, they'd probably love to see you humiliated, especially Grey…

You have an idea. It's a risky one, that could end very poorly if phrased carelessly. Then again, you're already being threatened with the tower. Now is the perfect time to take a risk.

You allow your towel to slide off your body. Both pairs of eyes widen as they watch you. 'To prove my loyalty, I am willing to be used and humiliated by two of her Majesty's closest confidants. I have wronged you both greatly, and I would see that rectified. That is my answer.' You stand up as tall as possible, in an attempt to retain your dignity. Both men look taken aback, and it takes them a while to regain their composure.

It's Phipps that manages to speak first. 'If you were to allow such a thing, then we would be more than willing to inform her Majesty that you are indeed still loyal to her. Wouldn't we, Grey?' He looks over to his shorter counterpart, who still looks shocked. He finally regains the ability to speak.

'Fine, but only if I get to use that delectable rear of hers. I bet it's so tight, I can't wait to feel it stretch over me.' He palms his crotch, presumably to ease any strain on the erection you suspect has formed there. Both him and Phipps stare at you, and you can't believe that your plan has worked!

All you have to do now is go through with it.

You put on your formal voice, in an attempt to hide your nerves. 'Gentlemen, I believe we have an accord.' That's all it takes for Phipps to strike, grabbing onto your shoulders and forcing his tongue into your mouth. You're unable to respond for a while, completely taken aback by his behaviour. His calm demeanour is evidentially a façade, one that has been shattered by your proposition. His true nature is now coming forth, and you can tell he's going to be wild in bed.

As you finally start responding, you catch Grey out the the corner of your eye, stripping out his pristine uniform. He puts it all in a tidy pile before waltzing over to you, lazily stroking his erection. Phipps grabs onto a breasts, bringing your attention back to him. He doesn't have it for long though, as Grey yanks your head back, and forces your lips onto his instead. Phipps lets you go, deciding that now is the perfect opportunity to strip. As he undresses, you weave your hands through Grey's hair, lightly tugging it as you kiss.

You feel a hand head towards your rear, followed by a light pressure at your opening. Before anything else happens, you hear Phipps' voice from across the room. 'Patience, Grey.' He says, making his way over to you. 'You don't want to skip ahead to the main event just yet.' Grey breaks the kiss, and stares up angry at Phipps.

'Main event? What are you taking about, man? There is only the main event! Unless you're planning to buy her dinner first?!' He sounds terribly impatience, and is about to resume his actions when Phipps answers his question.

'Think about it, Grey. How many ways can a man enter a woman?' Grey thinks momentarily before answering.

'Three ways, one of which I've already laid a claim on!' He's starting to get irritated, but Phipps persists, unperturbed by his attitude.

'Correct, and that claim still stands. I'm personally interested in her quim, so we'll take that out of the equation, too. So, what do we have left?' The penny has finally dropped for you, but it's taking Grey some time to get to grips with Phipps' suggestion.

'Her mouth. What of it? We've already been using that!' Phipps is about to answer, but you cut him off, hoping you've understood his suggestion correctly.

'Don't you think you could put it to better use, though? After all, it's going to take time to prepare me for you, and by the time I'm ready, you'll be so excited you'll spill in an instant. If you use my mouth to get you off now though, you can use the time spent preparing me to regain your erection, which should last a little longer. Unless you're worried you won't be able to get it up again?' Phipps lets out a snort, your little challenge to Grey amusing him greatly.

Grey forces you onto your knees, dragging your head over to his crotch. 'I'll show you! I'm going to pound into you so hard you won't be able to walk properly for days!And every time you do walk, you'll have my essence leaking out of you, reminding you of just how good I am in bed!' He shoves your mouth onto his cock, and begins thrusting into your mouth, abusing it without a thought towards your feelings. You reach a hand out towards Phipps, wrapping it around his erection so that he doesn't feel left out. Both men start groaning loudly, and you find yourself growing wet at the sound. This has been the best idea you've ever had!

Eventually, Phipps tires of only having your hand, so he grabs your head away from Grey, and places his erection inside of your mouth instead. His cock is thicker than Grey's, making your jaw ache delightfully. He's not quite as forceful as Grey either, taking his time with his thrusts. He's clearly in no hurry to finish. Grey on the other hand…

Grey grabs your free hand and places it on his erection, pumping it a few times as a way of encouraging you to do it for him. You get the hint, hand moving up and down his shaft quickly and forcefully, the same way he used your mouth.

You feel both sets of testicles tense up, indicating that they're both close to release. Surprising, it's Phipps that goes first, yanking your head back so he can release over your chest instead. Grey mimics him, turning you to face him so he can cover your breasts.

Both men stare down at you, panting as they do. You feel sticky and used, but in the most glorious way imaginable. You remain on your knees, eagerly awaiting their next move. Grey speaks first.

'You like that, didn't you? Filthy whore, I can hardly wait to fill you up properly!' He forces you to stand, yanking your hair until you're at full height again. Phipps makes a disapproving noise.

'There's no need to be cruel, Grey. She is doing this of her own free will, after all. Try to be more respectful.' Grey shoves you onto the bed, and you land flat on your back. You sit yourself up, their release starting to congeal on your body. You watch as the two men search the room, feeling a little confused; what are they looking for? Grey clearly finds whatever it is, as he makes his way back over to you. Only then does he answer Phipps.

'Respectful? We almost died, Phipps! We've earned the right to be a little rough with the woman who failed to warn us!' You hear a lid being removed, and feel something cold press against your back entrance; Grey was searching for lubricant.

Phipps hovers over you, and starts to you with your body. He takes a nipple into his mouth, worrying it with his teeth. You get so lost in the sensation that you don't realise what Grey's about to do. He slips his finger inside of you, earning him a pained gasp. Phipps moves his head to your ear, and starts stroking your hair as he whispering encouragement.

'That's it, just try to relax. He needs to make sure you're ready for something bigger than his fingers. You're going to feel so good when we're both inside of you…' he moves a hand to your crotch, and starts rubbing against your clit, almost as if he's apologising for his partner hurting you. The pleasure he's providing eventually outweighs the pain, until Grey sticks another finger inside of you.

The pain is almost too much, but you try your best to stay relaxed, knowing that it's in your best interest to do so. You try to focus only on the good sensations, and eventually find yourself moaning. Phipps decides that you don't need anymore encouragement, and turns his attention back to your nipple. Your moans grow loader, and his actions grow bolder, as he slips a finger inside of your wet entrance. The feeling of both holes having something inside of them in intense, and you can't even begin to imagine how amazing it would feel to have them both inside of you at the same time. Alas, you doubt Grey will be willing to share with Phipps again. Still, no harm in asking.

'I want… you both inside… at the same time… please…' both men groan in unison, clearly approving of your suggestion. Grey inserts a third finger, and you find that it doesn't hurt as much as the first two. That must mean he's almost done preparing you.

Grey groans out a response to your statement. 'Phipps, you settle down against the pillows. I'll send her over when I'm done getting her ready. Someone is going to be sore in the morning.' You've never hear a more truthful statement in your life. The mere thought of the aching you're going to experience come morning sends shivers of carnal delight throughout your body, and you find yourself barely able to contain your enthusiasm. As Phipps moves into position, you start rocking into Grey's hand, trying to help him in his preparation of you. He groans approvingly.

'That's it, nearly ready. You're in for a whole world of pleasure.' He stretches his fingers out a few more times before withdrawing them completely. You take that as him being finished, so you crawl over to Phipps, straddling his lap. His erection presses again you urgently, so you waste no time, lifting yourself up so you can sink down into his cock.

You rock yourself up and down a few times before he stills your hips, grabbing both of your ass cheeks and exposing your free hole to his partner. You hear a squelching noise behind you, and assume it's Grey applying lubricant to his erection. Your assumption is proved correct when you feel something hard and moist poke at your opening. He works his tip into you, before whispering into your ear.

'Just lean forwards and think of England.' With that, he slowly slides his way in, until his entire erection is inside of you.

The three of you remain perfectly still, a veritable sandwich of sin. You're delighted that you're the filling in this situation, because the sensations flowing through you right now are divine. Your whole body feels full and stretched, and there's a delicious ache in your legs from having to spread yourself to accommodate two men at once. It's heaven, or the closest thing possible.

Grey isn't exactly known for his patience, so you're hardly surprised that he's the first one to move, almost leaving your body completely before ramming himself back inside. Phipps takes it as his queue to move too, although he's being far more gentle with you. The contrast feels wonderful, and you allow yourself to focus purely on the sensation of being used by them, no longer concerning yourself with anything else.

The two men settle into a steady pace, one that ensures that one of them is inside you at all times. You feel yourself burning up from the inside, and know that it won't be long until you're spent. Grey and Phipps grab a breast each, and toy with your nipples, which earns them an ecstatic scream. Both men increase their pace, determined to send you over quickly.

Their plan works, and you scream as the world around you falls apart, these two men the only thing that feels real anymore. They work you through your release throughly, ensuring that your pleasure lasts for as long as possible. Finally, when you feel your peak ebbing away, they release inside of your simultaneously. They flood your insides completely, and you're pleasantly surprised; you thought that your earlier activities would have drained them both dry.

Warmth seeps throughout your being, and you collapse into the man in front of you, completely unable to support your weight anymore.

When they're done, they slowly untangle themselves from you, Grey withdrawing first so that Phipps can lift you off of him. Both of their essences leak out of you, staining the sheets below. If you had any semblance of thought left you'd be angry, but you really can't think at the moment.

You remain motionless on the bed as the two men redress. When they're done, they move you under the sheets, both giving you a passionate kiss goodbye.

As they leave, Phipps addresses you one final time.

'We sincerely hope that you continue to remain loyal to Queen and country.'

Notes:

So, any good?

I might have difficulty writing the final fic, as I'm currently battling the twin demons depression and anxiety (the only reason this one is done is because I wrote it a day in advance. I was on it yesterday!). But fear not! For as soon as they are shoved into a far corner of my mind again, Reader-Chan shall be facing twin demons of her own! (That would be a great segwey if it wasn't tragically true :/)

Next time on Lover To Lover; Claude & Sebastian. I sincerely hope to see you tomorrow ;)

#black butler fanfiction

[izzy-b-hands]

Woke up and realized I'm in the start of a depressive pit, so I wrote a fic in which Calico Jack dies (sorry y'all, but he reminds me of the worst people in my life and I did try to keep him alive in this! And then the easier route was death, so. Yeah), Izzy has a romantic awakening of sorts, and Roach and Oluwande really aren't paid enough to deal with half the shit that happens on this ship.

Will this help said depressive pit? Not sure. But I had fun anyway.

Oh, also Calico Jack throws all their fucking food away, because of course he did.

Ed/Stede but this is mostly from Izzy's POV so we get the beginnings of some Ed/Stede/Izzy as well.

TW for emetophobia, violence (stabbings and descriptions of as well as a fatal beating), and drinking.

---

"Izzy?"

"Mhm?" He wasn't half awake, curled up on the cot he'd dragged into the previously empty closet that he'd claimed as his quarters.

"We're out of food," Roach winced. "Like. Completely. But we weren't last night, so..."

"Wasn't me," Izzy said dryly as he sat up, cracking an aching back and stretching out his limbs.

"I know," Roach smiled, but it dropped fast. "Don't really care who it was. Just want to know what our game plan is to fix this."

"Are you not our chef?"

"I am, but I cannot chef what food isn't here."

A valid point, and it was Roach's job to cook for them, not to source all the food. That was supposed to be-

"Bonnet!"

Roach was a foot behind him, looking as if he was considering jumping overboard. "They didn't wake up when I tried them, that's why I went to you. Otherwise I wouldn't have."

"I'm well aware even now most of you would rather die than ask me for help," Izzy grumbled. "And yet, somehow, I'm pulled to solve the ship's problems constantly. Well, a lot."

He had to admit his new co-first mate, Oluwande, had stepped up to the plate. Now and again he would take over when people came to him, and offer a solution instead. It was an unspoken balancing act for them both, and he appreciated it.

But for now, he didn't want to starve. "I know you two are in there, come on!"

He frowned, then sighed. "We're out of that fucking marmalade you both love!"

A bleary-eyed Ed finally opened the door. "Breakfast?"

"No, because we don't have any. Because per our chef, the food is all gone."

Ed was clearly not fully awake and comprehending, but the wheels were turning. "Wait, what? We had food last night."

"We did," Izzy agreed. "And yet, here we are. Where shall we set course to pick up more?"

Stede stumbled up beside Ed, yawning. "What's this?"

Izzy fought the urge to scream. It was five in the fucking morning, and today was their usual designated day to sleep in. He couldn't name any time he'd actually been able to successfully do that though, and this day was no different. "We. Have. No. Food."

Stede's eyes went wide. "We just picked up more."

Izzy restrained himself. He wanted to go back to bed, that was it. He wasn't even fully dressed, stood there in nothing but the open black silk robe Stede had insisted he take from the auxiliary wardrobe after the last early morning emergency, in which he'd simply given up, and wandered naked to their quarters to make a plan.

"We did," he sighed. "But something has happened to it apparently. Roach, would you like to give them your account?"

Roach nodded and stepped closer. "Full larders last night, meat safe in the salt and all that. Then I go to make myself some breakfast and..."

He held his hands up. "Poof. Nothing."

He listened to Stede and Ed and Roach start to plan and panic all at once, then looked down to his bare foot.

A rum bottle. Not one of the make they kept on board, and the crew was picky about that.

"I think I know where the food went," Izzy said, picking up the bottle and holding it out like it was diseased. "I bet if we search we'll find the fucking bilge rat."

Ed's eyes went over the bottle, and he sighed. "Fuck."

"Fucking Calico Jack," Izzy muttered. "He should have been dead trying to find you, and I'll make sure he's dead now."

"Hang on," Stede interjected. "I thought you sent him before to break us up?"

Izzy nodded. "But he's a fucking thorn in my side as well, and I figured if he didn't make it here, his dinghy might at least capsize."

"That's cold, Iz," Ed said.

Stede just nodded back. He got it.

He tied his robe up, and started his search, leaving the three of them there. For this, he didn't really need their help. They could plan which port to stop at for food, and he could kill the rat in the larder (which frankly was an insult to rats.)

His target was in the jam room, vomiting in a turned over drum.

"Fucking-" Izzy threw up his hands. "Seriously? Now we'll have to buy another of those to keep Bonnet happy. Why the fuck are you even here?"

Calico Jack turned, and promptly fell over to lay on the floor.

"If you pass out to get out of helping fix this, then I swear I'll fucking kill you here and now," Izzy stomped over and yanked him up by the front of his shirt.

"Oh no," Jack grinned. "I'm here for a duel, actually. With you."

He pulled up his shirt, and while Izzy didn't consider his stomach sensitive, it was still a rough view.

A sewn circle in one side, where a cannonball had clearly gone through him. It looked a bit swollen and infected, and Izzy wondered if he was drinking to get drunk, or also to try and kill said infection from the inside out.

"I didn't shoot you with that," Izzy said. "Might have wanted to, but I didn't."

"No, but your orders," Jack hiccuped as Izzy helped pull him to standing. "Are what got me this way. So I want a fucking duel, and I'm gonna kill you for this."

Izzy nodded. "Can you stand if I let go of your shirt?"

Jack shook his head, and Izzy let go.

He ignored the thud and the sound of the breaking drum. This was utter bullshit, and he wasn't going to entertain it when they had a bigger problem to fix. Let him sleep off the drink here, and then he'd come back to him.

Or he would have, but there was a sensation in his back.

He peered down, to the sharp end of a sword coming out of his torso.

"That's new," he chuckled softly. "I've always fucking hated you, Jack. Not just for whatever you did to the food, or this. But for that and so much more."

"You're not the first for that," Jack laughed, barely able to remain upright. Most of his ability to do so had to have been used up during the stab. "Y'all had too much food anyway, no room for booze! I threw that shit off the side of the ship for the fish."

"You are the fucking worst," Izzy said through gritted teeth. "Do I get to keep this then?"

He winced as Jack tried and failed to retrieve his blade. "That's a yes then. Thanks, haven't had anything new in awhile. Though I'd imagine this is as cheap as you are, but beggars can't be choosers."

He turned around to an incensed Jack, who strode past him in a huff.

Following him quickly wasn't an option; if he didn't try to hold one end of the sword it would wiggle as he walked, and he hated that feeling.

So when he got back to the captain's quarters, Jack was already there, screaming in Ed's face. Roach was nowhere to be seen, and that was fair. He'd done his job of alerting them to the problem, and he certainly wasn't paid enough to deal with a drunken and angry Jack. No one could be paid enough for that.

"I deserve to kill him for what he put me through!" Jack shrieked. "What you put me through! You know how much I've had to drink to deal with the pain from this?"

He lifted his shirt, and Stede gagged.

"So it did hit you," Ed remarked as he took in the poorly healing attempt at surgery. "I had hoped it would kill you."

"Can't kill me," Jack said proudly. "I'm a fucking legend!"

"That's the issue, man," Ed sighed. He took a step closer to Jack. A hand slipped towards the back of his robe.

An old sign, but he knew it well. Izzy pulled the door shut, giving Stede a knowing look. He'd expected Stede to pass out or vomit, but instead he grabbed a golden whale figure off the nearest table and held it at the ready.

"See, the thing with pirate legends, is that people don't like it when the legend isn't them," Ed continued. "People want the fame and acclaim and what they think it brings."

A flash of a blade, pulled from what Izzy presumed and hoped was the usual bedtime sheath worn on his bare thigh. An old birthday gift from him to Ed, as it happened.

"So they kill legends," Ed said with a heavy sigh, and stabbed Jack dead in the center of his chest. "Because one less living legend means more room for a new one. Besides man, what does it really get you?"

Jack was breathing hard, laughing at the dagger sticking out of him. "Jizzy! We match!"

"Oh god," Stede had finally really looked at him, and apparently noticed the sword still running him through. "Izzy, we'll get you to Roach. Don't take it out."

"Not the first time I've been stabbed," Izzy tried to say it to comfort him, but Stede didn't seem comforted at all. "Won't be the last either."

"You could just avoid getting stabbed," Stede noted. "I mean, good to learn how to take a stabbing, but at the same time-"

"I should kill all of you," Jack cackled. "Wasn't really just Jizzy Izzy here that kept nearly getting me killed, or tried to. You all did!"

"Well yeah," Ed said. "I just stabbed you."

"Shut up," Jack spat, suddenly deadly serious.

"Excuse me?" Ed replied.

"Shut. The. Fuck. Up," Jack growled until he was close to Ed again, close enough to have Ed's chest bump the handle of the dagger, pushing it a little more into him.

Before Ed or Izzy could act, Stede walloped Jack over the head with the golden whale.

Any attempt to help was thwarted by the sheer fact that Stede had this. To Izzy, it was a beautiful act of pirate violence. He really had learned something from them as he pushed Jack to the floor, beating him with the whale as if he was hoping to break the gold open and look inside.

Something else broke instead.

"I'm sorry, Ed," Stede had tears running down his face. "He was your friend and I-"

"Hey," Ed gently pulled him up away from Jack and held him close. "I was literally trying to kill him myself a minute ago. You just finished it, and that's okay. Real pirate shit, is what it is!"

"But-"

"If he was a friend," Izzy interrupted. "Then it was years ago. When we were all wanting to be legends who drank and fought more than we ate or slept. Now..."

"Things are a little different now," Ed finished the thought. "Let's get you a bath, eh? You've got brain in your hair."

Izzy opened the door, and left them to it. Still trying to hold one end of the sword so it didn't jiggle, but that was impossible while dragging Jack's corpse out of their quarters.

"Fucking hell," Oluwande rushed up to him. "Roach wasn't lying."

"Nope," Izzy winced as he stood, the blade wiggling about in his midsection. "Could I trouble you to toss this overboard? I don't think I can manage it presently."

"Let's get you to the infirmary first," Oluwande said.

"I was planning to go back to bed and sleep in," Izzy sighed. He was over the whole being stabbed thing. After the adrenaline of the very first time, it was just irritating.

"I get it," Oluwande nodded. "But what if I told you that if I take you to Roach, we can get that sword out and you could go back to sleep?"

"By sleep, you don't mean death, right?"

"No, I mean we'll get you drunk enough to pass out while Roach fixes you up," Oluwande said. "He doesn't have the most gentle hand when it comes to stabbings. Wait, did you think we'd use this as a chance to kill you?"

Izzy laughed, though it hurt. "It's what, six in the morning maybe? And I've already been run through. Yeah, I figured you all might kill the nag that's been bothering you for months."

"In previous days, I admit we might have taken that opportunity," Oluwande said. "But now, you're stuck with us. Ed loves you both-"

"What?" Izzy interrupted, but Oluwande was gently pulling him towards the infirmary.

"And since he loves you and Stede like that, we are gonna do all we can to keep you both alive. Gotta be honest, neither of you make that easy."

Izzy was silent, and Oluwande dropped into silence too for the rest of the walk to the infirmary.

There he was surrounded by a clutter of people and noise as Roach pulled people to help with the impromptu sort of surgery required, and others rushed for handles of rum to give him.

He hated drinking on an empty stomach, but the idea of being conscious for it was a worse option. As it was, it would already be uncomfortable, laying on his side so Roach had full access to both ends of the sword.

As he drank, he thought on it. Ed loved him. Like Stede. In that way. Years of pining, and this was how he found out. On accident, from his co-first mate.

The thought of a bath before his wound would need redressing came to mind. Maybe Stede would let him do so in his tub, with that stupid lovely fancy silk black robe laid out for him. Ed and Stede both there, and maybe he could let Stede wash his hair. Let Ed run a warm soapy cloth over the wound Jack had left. Maybe it would be sort of nice, actually.

"Smiling a lot for a nearly passed out stabbed man," Roach gestured to Izzy as he worked.

"Been a rough morning," Oluwande sighed. "Said he wanted to sleep in. Bet he's just happy to be laying down again. Well, that and getting the sword removed."

He could hear them, but it was hazy. He wanted to tell Roach to save the blade if he could, in one piece. He was gonna get it shined up and pretty, then give it to Ed and Stede as a souvenir.

It could sit on the mantle near Stede's bed, where he could admit, under cover of shock and alcohol and pain, he hoped they might let him join.

#text post #ofmd fic